Formula for duplicate data?

laura.sandoval

Quick question! Is there a formula or something that can alert me if there's any information in two different cells that are duplicated?

For example…we code our clinic sites with three letters (ABC or DEF) in one column. Is there a formula that can let me know if it's ever duplicated? Thanks!

Leroy Noriega

You could use a conditional formatting to identify duplicates. You can also create a helper box column to check if certain cell matched other cells within the row and use that as a trigger to alert you.

laura.sandoval

@Leroy Noriega I did the conditional formatting, but it only highlights the cell and we have up to 200 rows so it would be difficult to notice unless I get an alert. Do you have some tips on what to put to trigger me if certain cells matched other cells? That's where I'm stuck 😕

Leroy Noriega

The conditional formatting can be changed to highight the whole row.

I recommend creating a helper Checkbox column to the right side of your sheet. In here create a the IF formula to do the cell comparison, if duplicates then 1, if no duplicates then 0.

Convert the cell into a column formula.

Create an automation to email you/alert you when the box is checked.

laura.sandoval

Got it thank you!