Automate Number Series and Date Lists
Tired of manually filling number series, dates, or data rows in your spreadsheet? SEQUENCE is the Excel function defined just for this sort of automation. It autosaves arrays of numbers, dates, or custom sequences, thereby saving time and minimizing errors.
This dynamic function can indeed serve several purposes in your work. It makes automated calendars, abuzz with number grids, and dashboards, and it makes processing large data sets painless.
📐 What Is the SEQUENCE Function in Excel?
The SEQUENCE in Excel returns a list of sequential numbers in an array that fills multiple cells, vertically, horizontally, or both.
Syntax:
=SEQUENCE(rows, [columns], [start], [step])
- rows - Number of rows to fill with values
- columns - Optional. Number of columns
- start - Optional. Starting value. Default is 1
- step - Optional. Step between numbers. Default is 1
It works with dynamic arrays in Excel, meaning that the result spills over to adjacent cells automatically.
✅ Application of SEQUENCE in Real Life
1. Quick creation of the numbers list
=SEQUENCE(10)
These numbers 1 through 10 are down a vertical column. For numbered lists, ordering data or tracking IDs.
2. Create a Number Matrix
=SEQUENCE(5, 5)
Gives you a 5x5 matrix (25 values), handy for grids, seating charts, and allocation tables.
3. Custom Ranges and Increments
=SEQUENCE(5, 1, 100, 10)
Starting at 100 and stepping by 10: 100, 110, 120, 130, 140.
4. Auto-Fill Sequential Dates
=SEQUENCE(7, 1, DATE(2025, 1, 1), 1)
Populates the first week of dates from January 1, 2025, good for scheduling, time tracking, or timelines.
5. Use SEQUENCE with Other Excel Functions
Combine SEQUENCE with INDEX , TEXT , SORT , XLOOKUP , and FILTER to create smart dashboards and data reports.
🔄 Create Dynamic Tables using SEQUENCE with FILTER
=FILTER(A2:A100, SEQUENCE(ROWS(A2:A100))<=10)
Filters and returns the first 10 rows from a data set, perfect for previews or dynamic dashboards.
SEQUENCE is not just about numbers but automation, flexibility, and smarter spreadsheet management. From a simple structured list of numbers to a complex reporting template, SEQUENCE enables dynamic Excel solutions.
Whatever the case-job, student, analyst, or entrepreneur, having the SEQUENCE function will certainly bring your productivity up a notch. Start small with =SEQUENCE(10) , then integrate it into more advanced use cases like automated calendars or conditional tables.
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