How To Correct A #NAME? Error - Microsoft Support

The top reason why the #NAME? error appears in the formula is because there's a typo in the formula name. Look at the following example:

#NAME? error caused by a typo in syntax

Important: The #NAME? error signifies that something needs to be corrected in the syntax, so when you see the error in your formula, resolve it. Do not use any error-handling functions such as IFERROR to mask the error.

To avoid typos in formula names, use the Formula Wizard in Excel. When you start typing a formula name in a cell or the Formula Bar, a list of formulas matching to the words you've entered displays in a dropdown. Once you enter the formula name and the opening parentheses, the Formula Wizard displays the syntax as hover text.

Formula syntax as hover text

You can also use the Function Wizard to avoid the syntactical errors. Select the cell with the formula, and on the Formulas tab, press Insert function button Insert Function.

Excel automatically loads the Wizard for you.

Example of the Formula Wizard dialog.

As you select each argument, Excel gives you the appropriate information for each one.

Below are other causes of the #NAME? error.

Tag » What Does Name Mean In Excel