Count(Distinct()) function that works with one column (range), but not another.

Brian_Vaughan

Hi All! I am using a =Count(Distinct({Range})) which works exactly as expected with one range of data, but returns a "1" with the exact same formula on an adjacent column of data. The only difference between the data in the 2 columns is the data. Same column type, similar numbers, etc.

Anyone had this issue before?

Andrée Starå

Hi @Brian_Vaughan

Strange!

Can you maybe share some screenshots of the columns? (Delete/replace any confidential/sensitive information before sharing) That would make it easier to help. (share too, andree@getdone.se)

I hope that helps!

Be safe and have a fantastic week!

Best,

Andrée Starå

Workflow Consultant / CEO @ WORK BOLD

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Brian_Vaughan

@Andrée Starå

This Formula works:

Range:

This does not work: same formula, just an adjacent column for range:

Range:

Thanks!!

PCA

Hi! I noticed the same with a Sheet Summary field. There were some existing =COUNT(DISTINCT([Range])) that are correct. When I went in today to add another COUNT DISTINCT using a column right next to one of the others, it returned 1.

Brian_Vaughan

UPDATE:

I have found that the data in my range are almost all numeric, however, there are a couple customers that have site numbers that contain text. It seems the Distinct Function is treating the entire range as either Numeric or Text when it sees that the majority of the data is one or the other. In my case, when it thinks the entire range is numeric, and sees a text field, it is returning "1" as the answer.

However, if I applied the formula to a range that is mixed numeric and text throughout, it handles that range of data without any issues.

Andrée Starå

@Brian_Vaughan

I found this.

All values must be of the same data type in order for the function to calculate.

For example, 1, 2, a, 2 will produce a value of 1 if counted. 1, 2, 2, 3 will produce a value of 3 because only 1, 2, 3 are distinct.

https://help.smartsheet.com/function/distinct