

Then select “Row difference” from the options. When comparing two lists of data, select both columns of data, press F5 key on the keyboard, select the “Go to special” dialog box. Match Data using Row Difference Technique Formatting of values identified can then be defined for both Duplicate or Unique values for datasets in both lists.Ģ. A Duplicate Values setting box is available in the Conditional Formatting drop down list, where you can define the formatting and selection of Duplicate or Unique values. It will allow you to highlight a cell or range of cells based upon defined criteria. This method might be the quickest and most simple method. Quick conditional formatting to compare two columns of data Range sizes in data set fluctuate – use Tablesġ.Match Data using Row Difference Technique.Quick conditional formatting to compare two columns of data.The techniques discussed in this article include: This article will describe the methods so that you know what functions are available, and then what to search for when looking for tutorials. Tutorials can be found on the internet and in various Excel books and publications. The article is also not meant to provide tutorials on these methods. It will not address all available methods.
BEST WAY TO COMPARE TWO COLUMNS IN EXCEL HOW TO
This article will examine some of these various methods and offer guidance on how to select the method that best fits the requirement at hand. Some of the methods include the use of conditional formatting, creating formulas, and the use of add-in’s such as Power Query. In Excel, like many things, there are multiple ways to accomplish that task. For example, it can aid in duplicate detection of transactional data, identify outliers or anomalies, or detect missing information. The ability to analyze entire datasets instead of just samples can improve the quality of the audit. Auditors also compare lists or datasets for analysis to investigate anomalies or identify trends in data, as well as to provide audit evidence. Some of these tasks include bank statement reconciliations, general ledger, and account reconciliations. Many tasks that accountants and auditors perform require comparing two lists, or datasets, to find matching, non-matching, or missing values.

Originally published in The Cooperative Accountant, Fall 2021 Issue
