Formula Syntax
XMATCHEXCLUSIVE
Performs an exclusive lookup where each match can only be used once.
| Parameter | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
lookup_value |
Yes | The value to search for. Can be a single cell or multiple cells for multi-criteria matching (e.g., A2 or A2:B2). |
lookup_range |
Yes | The range to search in. Must have same number of columns as lookup_value. Use absolute references ($B$2:$B$100). |
return_range |
Yes | The range to return values from. Must have same number of rows as lookup_range. |
if_not_found |
No | Value to return if no match is found. Default is #N/A. |
Other Functions
Examples
📦 Basic: Assign Serial Numbers
You have orders in column A and serial numbers in columns B-C. Assign each order a unique serial number.
=XME.XMATCHEXCLUSIVE(A2, $B$2:$B$100, $C$2:$C$100, "No serial available")
👥 Multi-Criteria: Match by Type AND Size
Match orders that have the same product type AND size, using two criteria columns.
=XME.XMATCHEXCLUSIVE(A2:B2, $D$2:$E$100, $F$2:$F$100, "No match")
🔢 Simple: Return Row Number
Return which row was matched (useful for debugging).
=XME.XMATCHEXCLUSIVE(A2, $B$2:$B$100, ROW($B$2:$B$100), 0)
📊 Check Status
See how many ranges are being tracked and how many assignments exist.
=XME.XMATCHSTATUS()
Returns: Ranges: 2 | Assignments: 45
Pricing & Limits
Free Tier
- Up to 100 rows per lookup range
- 200 formula calls per day
- All core features
Pro Tier ($9/month)
- Unlimited rows per lookup range
- Unlimited formula calls
- Priority support
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I install XMatchExclusive?
Open Excel → Insert → Get Add-ins → Search for "XMatchExclusive" → Click Add. The functions will be available immediately.
Why use absolute references ($B$2:$B$100)?
Absolute references ensure all formulas look at the same range. Without them, each formula would look at different rows, breaking the exclusive matching.
What happens when I save and reopen my workbook?
All assignments are preserved! XMatchExclusive stores tracking data in your workbook, so your matches remain consistent.
How do I reset and reassign all matches?
Open the XMatchExclusive taskpane (click "Settings" in the ribbon) and click "Reset All Matches". All formulas will recalculate and create new assignments.
How do I reassign just one cell?
Delete the formula in that cell, then re-enter it. The old assignment is released, and a new match is found.
Why am I getting "#LIMIT" errors?
You've exceeded the free tier limits. Either your lookup range has more than 100 rows, or you've made more than 200 calls today. Upgrade to Pro to remove limits.
Does XMatchExclusive work with Excel Online?
Yes! XMatchExclusive works with Excel for Windows, Mac, and Excel Online (web browser).
Is my spreadsheet data sent to your servers?
No. Your spreadsheet data is processed entirely within Excel. Only license verification (email) touches our servers. See our Privacy Policy.
How do I check my current license?
Use the formula =XME.XMATCHLICENSE() or open the taskpane to see your tier, limits, and usage.
How do I upgrade to Pro?
Click the "Upgrade" button in the taskpane, or purchase directly from Microsoft AppSource.