where data is the named range B5:D14. To get the first row used, we use the ROW function together with the MIN function like this: Because data contains more than one row, ROW returns an array of row numbers: This array goes directly to the MIN function, which returns the smallest number: To get the first column, we use the COLUMN function in the same way: Since data contains three rows, COLUMN returns an array with three column numbers: and the MIN function again returns the largest number: Both results are returned directly to the ADDRESS function, which constructs a reference to the cell at row 5, column 2: If you want a relative address instead of an absolute reference, you can supply 4 for the third argument like this:
CELL function alternative
Although it’s not obvious, the INDEX function returns a reference, so we can use the CELL function with INDEX to get the address of the first cell in a range like this: In this case, we use the INDEX function to get a reference to the first cell in the range by giving INDEX 1 for row number and 1 for column number, with data for array: INDEX then returns a reference to cell B5, and we use the CELL function with “address”, to display the address. Note: The the CELL function is a volatile function which can cause performance problems in large or complex workbooks.
Dave Bruns
Hi - I’m Dave Bruns, and I run Exceljet with my wife, Lisa. Our goal is to help you work faster in Excel. We create short videos, and clear examples of formulas, functions, pivot tables, conditional formatting, and charts.
