LT Function in Google Sheets: Test a strict numeric threshold

=LT(value1, value2) requires two values and returns a logical TRUE or FALSE. For numeric inputs it has the same comparison meaning as <. The examples deliberately use numbers, avoiding assumptions about text collation or mixed types.

Enter each formula in a separate empty cell. The equality row is the important control: it distinguishes strict comparisons from inclusive comparisons. The reversed row helps detect an accidentally swapped pair of references. These are logical outputs, not quoted text labels.

A price must be strictly below 50. With 49, 50 and 51 in A2:A4 and 50 in B1, enter =LT(A2,$B$1) in B2 and copy through B4. Expected results are TRUE, FALSE and FALSE. The fixed threshold reference stays on B1; the price reference changes by row.

Check all three rows before applying the formula to a larger list. Name the two source columns clearly so a reader knows what a TRUE flag means. A comparison is only a test; it does not remove or repair a failing record.

• If the equality row has the wrong policy outcome, choose the appropriate strict or inclusive operator rather than shifting the threshold by an arbitrary small amount.
• If copying changes the threshold, inspect relative versus absolute references.
• If two formatted amounts look equal but compare differently, inspect the underlying input precision before deciding whether rounding belongs in your business rule.
• Normalize imported numeric data intentionally. This guide does not establish blank, text, error or mixed-type comparison behavior.

The operator form =A2<B2 expresses the same documented comparison. Operator syntax may be clearer when moving a workbook between programs, but test the actual transferred formulas and values. No cross-application coercion equivalence is claimed. See IF to turn a tested condition into an explicit label.

Documented in the rolling Google Sheets service. Documentation reviewed October 19, 2026; an introduction date or numbered release was not established. Examples use English function names, decimal points and comma separators; adapt separators to the sheet’s locale.

The official reference establishes the syntax and function-specific contract. Worked values are original, independently derived expectations, not native Google Sheets observations. No account access, UI screenshot or cross-version execution was performed. Native behavior outside the documented scope remains unverified.