Excel Formula for MAX Across Multiple Sheets

Objective

To create an Excel formula that calculates the maximum value from a specific range across multiple sheets.

Formula Syntax

The formula to find the maximum value across several worksheets is structured as follows:

=MAX(Sheet1:SheetN!A1)

Explanation of Components

• MAX: This function returns the largest number in a specified range.
• Sheet1:SheetN: This defines the range of sheets from which you want to calculate the maximum. Replace Sheet1 and SheetN with the actual names of your sheets (without quotation marks).
• A1: This is the cell reference (or the range) from which you want to find the maximum value. Adjust the cell reference according to your specific requirements.

Important Considerations

• The sheets must be contiguous (i.e., they must be next to each other in the workbook). If they are not, you cannot use the Sheet1:SheetN format.
• All sheets involved must contain the same cell reference for the formula to work correctly.

Practical Example

Scenario

You have three sheets in your workbook named Q1, Q2, and Q3, and you want to find the maximum sales figure located in cell B2 of each sheet.

Implementation

To implement the formula, input the following into a cell on a new sheet (let's call it Summary):

=MAX(Q1:Q3!B2)

Result Interpretation

This formula will evaluate the value in cell B2 on sheets Q1, Q2, and Q3, and return the highest value found among them.

Conclusion

The provided MAX formula allows users to efficiently calculate the highest value across a range of sheets within an Excel workbook. This method is particularly useful for summarizing data from different periods, departments, or categories in a structured manner. For additional training and resources, consider leveraging the Enterprise DNA Platform to enhance your Excel skills.