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In this article
COLUMNS counts columns in a range — useful for dynamic column numbers and checks.
Syntax
=COLUMNS(array)| Argument | What it means |
|---|---|
array |
Range or array. |
Examples
Example 1
=INDEX($B2:$M2, COLUMNS($B2:B2))Walk across a row as you fill right.
COLUMNS in practice
Where you will use it
- Count columns in a range or table
- Make a running counter as you copy right
- Check that an import has the expected number of fields
Worked example
| Range | Formula | Result |
|---|---|---|
| A1:D1 | =COLUMNS(INDIRECT(A2)) | 4 |
| B2:M2 | =COLUMNS(INDIRECT(A3)) | 12 |
| A:Z | =COLUMNS(INDIRECT(A4)) | 26 |
Results calculated in Excel.
Mistakes people make
| Mistake | What to do instead |
|---|---|
| Confusing with COLUMN | COLUMNS counts; COLUMN gives the position |
| Hard-coding sizes | COLUMNS(Table1) updates when columns are added |
Related functions
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📎 Practice files for this article
- 📗Practice workbook: Lookup & reference17 tasks on realistic sales data — type your formula, the Check column turns green when it is right. Answers sheet included.⬇ XLSX · 35 KB
Free to use for learning. Files with macros (.bas) are plain text — import them with Alt+F11 → File → Import File, and always test on a copy.
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