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NOT Function
Summary
The Excel NOT function reverses the logical value of its argument. It returns TRUE when the input is FALSE and FALSE when the input is TRUE, making it essential for creating complex logical conditions and inverting test results in formulas.
Syntax
NOT(logical)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| logical | Any |
Yes | The value or formula to reverse (TRUE becomes FALSE, FALSE becomes TRUE) |
Using the NOT Function
NOT is a fundamental logical function that inverts boolean results. It's commonly used within IF, AND, OR functions to test the opposite of a condition, enabling more flexible decision-making logic without rewriting conditions.
Common NOT Examples
Simple Value Inversion
=NOT(A1=100)Returns TRUE if A1 is not equal to 100, FALSE if it equals 100.
With IF Function
=IF(NOT(B2>50), "Below Target", "Met Target")Displays 'Below Target' if B2 is 50 or less (NOT greater than 50).
Range Validation with AND
=IF(AND(NOT(C2<1),NOT(C2>100)), C2, "Out of Range")Returns C2 value only if it's between 1-100 inclusive; otherwise 'Out of Range'.
Sales Bonus Logic
=IF(AND(NOT(D2<$D$1),NOT(E2<$E$1)), D2*$F$1, 0)Calculates commission only if sales AND accounts meet minimum goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#VALUE! error
Cause: Argument cannot be converted to logical value
Solution: Ensure input evaluates to TRUE/FALSE or use IFERROR wrapper
Unexpected results
Cause: Forgetting NOT inverts the entire condition
Solution: Test simple cases first: =NOT(TRUE) should return FALSE
Notes
- Available since Excel 2000
- Processes arrays when used with dynamic arrays
- Combines powerfully with IFS for multiple conditions
- Use double NOT (NOT(NOT())) to force TRUE/FALSE coercion
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+