Excel's #SPILL! Error: Causes and Solutions (Full Guide)
In recent versions of Excel, you may have encountered the vexing #SPILL! error while using formulas. Don't worry; you're not alone. This comprehensive guide will walk you through what the #SPILL! error is, why it happens, and provide practical solutions to resolve it.
The causes of #SPILL! error and the solutions
Spill range isn’t blank
Spill range has merge cell
Spill range in table
Spill range is too big
Spill range is unknown
Other causes
Video: #SPILL! Error
What is #SPILL! error?
The #SPILL! error is a common issue that arises in Excel versions 365 and 2021 onwards.
The #SPILL! error occurs not just with array formulas but with any formula that returns multiple results and encounters an obstacle in its output range.
In general, the #SPILL! error typically occurs when the spilling range contains non-empty cells. Clearing the data within these non-empty cells will often resolve the issue and allow the formula to function correctly. However, aside from this common cause, there are other factors that can lead to this error. Let's delve deeper into the reasons behind the #SPILL! error and explore the corresponding solutions.
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The causes of #SPILL! error and the solutions
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To pinpoint the exact cause of the issue, click on the Error floatie (depicted as a yellow diamond with an exclamation mark) and carefully read the message highlighted in grey on the first line.
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To quickly locate the cell causing the obstruction, start by selecting the formula cell. You'll notice a dashed border outlining the intended spill range. Next, click on the Error floatie and opt for the Select Obstructing Cells feature to instantly navigate to the obstructing cell or cells.
Let's break down the various causes of the #SPILL! error and provide step-by-step solutions for each scenario.
Spill range isn’t blank
Cause: If the spill range where Excel intends to place results isn't empty, it can lead to the #SPILL! error.
Example: Imagine you have a simple formula like =A2:A5. If any cell in the target range (e.g., C4) is occupied, you'll encounter the error.
Solution: Ensure each cell in the spill range is blank. In the example, select cell C4 and press Delete key to clear it.
Result:
Spill range has merge cell
Cause: If the spill range where Excel intends to place results contains merge cells, it can lead to the #SPILL! error.
Example: Imagine you have a simple formula like =A2:A5. If the target range contains merge cells (e.g., cell C3 and C4 are merged), you'll encounter the error.
Solution: Unmerge any merged cells in the target range before applying the formula. In the example, select the merge cells (C3:C4) and click Home > Merge & Center to unmerge the cells.
Result:
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Spill range in table
Cause: If the spill range is inside an Excel Table, it can lead to the #SPILL! error.
Example: You have an Excel table (A1:B6), and you want to sort the data in column A and spill the result in column B, you'll encounter the error.
Solutions:
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Spill the results outside of the Excel Table.
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Convert the table to range.
Select any cell of the table, click Table Design > Convert to Range.
Result:
Spill range is too big
Cause: When the formula generates more results than expected, it may exceed the available space.
Example: To use a VLOOKUP formula =VLOOKUP(A:A,A:C,2,FALSE) to return all values in column B from the range A:C by matching on the first column, you'll encounter the error.
Explanation: The formula triggers a #SPILL! error because Excel attempts to fetch data from the entire column A:A, resulting in a staggering 1,048,576 results, which exceeds the confines of the Excel grid's capacity.
Solutions:
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Refer to a specific range instead of whole column.
In this example, using below formula:
=VLOOKUP(A2:A6,A:C,2,FALSE)
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Calculate a single cell and copy the formula down.
In this example, using below formula to extract the first last name:
=VLOOKUP(A2,A:C,2,FALSE)Then drag auto fill handle down to copy the formula and get other results.
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Using @ operator to apply implicit intersection.
In this example, using below formula:
=VLOOKUP(@A:A,A:C,2,FALSE)Then drag auto fill handle down to copy the formula and get other results.
Spill range is unknown
Cause: Excel doesn't know how many cells the formula should occupy.
Example: When using a formula like =SEQUENCE(RANDBETWEEN(1,1000)) to generate a sequence, where the length of the sequence depends on the result of the RANDBETWEEN(1,1000) formula, you may encounter the #SPILL# error.
Explanation: In this specific case, the formula =SEQUENCE(RANDBETWEEN(1,1000)) is used to generate a sequence of numbers. However, the length of this sequence depends on the result of the RANDBETWEEN(1,1000) formula, which generates a random number between 1 and 1000. Since the result of RANDBETWEEN is dynamic and unpredictable, Excel cannot pre-determine the exact number of cells needed to display the sequence. As a result, the formula returns the #SPILL# error.
Solutions: None.
Other causes
Apart from the above scenarios, Microsoft has identified two additional potential causes for the #SPILL! error:
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Out of Memory
Cause: If Excel runs out of memory due to extensive calculations.
Solution: Reduce the data size or simplify your calculations.
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Unrecognized
Cause: When Excel can't identify a specific reason for the #SPILL! error.
Solution: Verify your formula, check for typos, or seek assistance from the Excel community.
The #SPILL! error can be a tricky obstacle to overcome, but armed with these insights and solutions, you can confidently navigate Excel's latest versions and tackle this error head-on. Remember, practice makes perfect, and soon, you'll be an #SPILL! error troubleshooter extraordinaire. Happy Excel-ing!
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