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DGET Function

Excel 2007+

Summary

The Excel DGET function extracts a single value from a database table based on exact matching criteria. Unlike lookup functions, DGET requires exactly one matching record and returns specific errors when no matches or multiple matches are found, making it ideal for precise data retrieval from structured lists.

Syntax

DGET(database, field, criteria)

Parameters

Parameter	Type	Required	Description
database	`Range`	Yes	Database range including headers (first row must contain column labels)
field	`String/Number`	Yes	Field name in double quotes or numeric position from database
criteria	`Range`	Yes	Criteria range with at least one header and condition row(s)

Using the DGET Function

DGET is perfect for retrieving specific records from structured data tables. Create a criteria range matching your database headers, then DGET returns the exact value from the specified field where all criteria match exactly one record.

Common DGET Examples

Multiple Match Error

=DGET(A4:E10, "Yield", A1:A3)

Returns #NUM! error because multiple trees (Apple/Pear) match the broad criteria >10 height.

Single Exact Match

=DGET(A4:E10, "Yield", A1:F3)

Returns 10 - yield from the specific Apple tree matching all criteria (Apple, Height<16, Height>10).

Frequently Asked Questions

#NUM! means multiple records match your criteria. DGET requires exactly one match.

#VALUE! means no records match. Check your criteria range and database headers.

Yes, but don't place criteria below or overlapping the database range.

Common Errors and Solutions

#NUM! error

Cause: Multiple records match the criteria

Solution: Add more specific criteria to match exactly one record

#VALUE! error

Cause: No records match criteria

Solution: Verify criteria headers match database exactly and conditions are correct

#REF! error

Cause: Invalid range references

Solution: Check database and criteria ranges are properly selected

Notes

First row of database MUST contain column headers
Criteria range needs matching header + condition row(s)
Use blank row in criteria for entire column operations
Criteria cannot overlap or be directly below database
Field can be text name in quotes OR column number

Compatibility

Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365

Not available in:

Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+