MATCH Function (Gnumeric)
Learn the MATCH function in Gnumeric: Defines a position in an array after comparing values.
Reference checked: Examples have not been run in this spreadsheet application. How we verify guides
The MATCH function in Gnumeric is used for this task: Defines a position in an array after comparing values. Find the position of an exact match in a list.
This guide explains how to read the formula, reproduce a concrete example, interpret its result and recognize common input mistakes.
Syntax and arguments
The worked formula below shows the argument order used for this example. Consult the linked software-specific function reference for optional parameters and edge cases.
Gnumeric formulas normally use commas (,) between arguments. These examples are written for Gnumeric rather than copied unchanged from LibreOffice Calc.
Worked example
Use this small practice sheet for the ranges referenced in the formula:
| Row | A (Quantity) | B (Amount) | C (Category) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 10 | apple |
| 2 | 2 | 20 | pear |
| 3 | 3 | 30 | apple |
| 4 | 4 | 40 | pear |
| 5 | 5 | 50 | apple |
=MATCH(30,B1:B5,0)
Expected result: 3.
Why it works: Find the position of an exact match in a list. The specified sample table supplies the referenced cells.
Another practical example
Practice inputs: B1:B5 contains 10,20,30,40,50.
=MATCH(40,B1:B5,0)
Expected result: 4.
MATCH reports the 1-based position 4 in the range, not the matched value 40.
What to watch for
Use match type 0 for an exact match; the default approximate modes require sorted data.
For LibreOffice Calc formulas, separators are commonly semicolons; the Gnumeric examples here use commas. The arithmetic or official reference supplies the expected result, but Gnumeric has not been executed for this review.
How to use it in your own spreadsheet
- Identify the cells or inputs that correspond to the sample values above.
- Enter the formula in an empty cell, changing the references or literal values to match your sheet.
- Compare the output with a manual check on a small known example.
- Extend the formula to a larger dataset only after you understand the result.
Common problems and practical checks
- Use the correct lookup column or return range, and use exact-match options where appropriate.
- Check for duplicate keys, leading spaces and numbers stored as text in lookup data.
- A pasted formula may produce an error when it uses the other program’s argument separator or unsupported options.
Lookup tip: Use exact matching for product codes or identifiers unless you have deliberately sorted your data for approximate matching. Check the behavior when no match exists.
Related functions
Documentation and verification
- Gnumeric official function reference
- Gnumeric function catalog
- The function name was checked against the official reference. A comparable example passed in LibreOffice Calc 25.2, but the example was not executed in this application. Confirm on your installed version before depending on it.