ROWS Function

Excel 2007+

Summary

The ROWS function in Excel returns the total number of rows in a specified cell range, array, or array formula. It's an essential tool for dynamic formulas that need to adapt based on data dimensions.

Syntax

ROWS(array)

Parameters

Parameter Type Required Description
array Range/Array Yes Reference to cells, array, or array formula to count rows from

Using the ROWS Function

ROWS is perfect for creating formulas that automatically adjust when data ranges change size. Use it to build dynamic named ranges, calculate offsets in INDEX/MATCH, or determine array dimensions for advanced calculations.

Common ROWS Examples

Count Rows in a Data Range

=ROWS(A1:D10)

Returns 10 - counts all rows from A1 to D10 regardless of empty cells.

Array Constant Row Count

=ROWS({10,20,30;40,50,60;70,80,90})

Returns 3 - counts rows in the 3x3 array constant.

Dynamic Chart Data Range

=OFFSET(A1,0,0,ROWS(A:A),1)

Creates a dynamic range that expands with new data rows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, ROWS counts all rows in the reference including completely empty rows.

ROWS gives the total row dimension. COUNTA counts non-empty cells.

Yes, ROWS automatically adapts to spilled dynamic array results.

Common Errors and Solutions

#VALUE! error

Cause: Non-array argument provided

Solution: Ensure the argument is a proper range, array, or array formula

Incorrect row count

Cause: Using single cell instead of range

Solution: Select full range: ROWS(A1:A10) instead of ROWS(A1)

Notes

  • ROWS always returns a single number value
  • Works with 2D arrays - only counts rows, not columns
  • Use ROWS(array)*COLUMNS(array) to get total cell count
  • Compatible with all Excel versions since 2007

Compatibility

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

Not available in:

Content last reviewed: December 11, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+