How the IF Function Thinks
Learn the test, value-if-true, and value-if-false structure of IF.
Meet the IF Function
So far your formulas always gave the same kind of answer. The IF function lets a spreadsheet decide between two outcomes based on a question.
Think of it like a fork in the road: if something is true, go one way; otherwise, go the other way. This single idea powers grading, status labels, discounts, and much more.
The Three Parts of IF
Every IF formula has exactly three pieces, separated by commas:
- The test — a question that is either true or false
- Value if true — what to show when the test passes
- Value if false — what to show when it fails
In plain words: IF (this is true), show this, otherwise show that.
=IF(test, value_if_true, value_if_false)All lessons in this course
- How the IF Function Thinks
- Comparing Values With Operators
- Returning Text or Numbers From IF
- Common IF Mistakes to Avoid