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ERROR.TYPE Function
Summary
The ERROR.TYPE function identifies specific Excel error values by returning a unique number for each error type. This enables precise error handling and conditional logic based on the exact error encountered in formulas.
Syntax
ERROR.TYPE(error_val)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| error_val | Any |
Yes | The cell reference or direct error value to analyze for its error type number. |
Using the ERROR.TYPE Function
ERROR.TYPE converts Excel errors into numeric codes, allowing sophisticated error handling beyond simple error detection. Use it within IF statements, CHOOSE functions, or validation logic to provide specific responses for different error conditions.
Common ERROR.TYPE Examples
Basic Error Identification
=ERROR.TYPE(A1)Returns the numeric code for whatever error appears in cell A1 (1-8) or #N/A if no error.
Custom Error Messages
=IF(ERROR.TYPE(B2)<3,CHOOSE(ERROR.TYPE(B2),"Ranges don't intersect","Divisor is zero"),"Other error")Provides specific messages for #NULL! (1) and #DIV/0! (2) errors, generic response for others.
Error Type Validation
=IFERROR(CHOOSE(ERROR.TYPE(C3),"NULL error","Div/0 error","Value error","Ref error","Name error","Num error","N/A error","Data error"),"No error")Converts any error in C3 to a descriptive text using all 8 error codes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#N/A result
Cause: Input cell contains no error value or a non-standard error
Solution: Ensure the referenced cell contains a genuine Excel error value (#NULL!, #DIV/0!, etc.)
Unexpected numeric result
Cause: Error type number doesn't match expected logic
Solution: Verify error code mapping: 1=#NULL!, 2=#DIV/0!, 3=#VALUE!, etc.
Notes
- Error codes: 1=#NULL!, 2=#DIV/0!, 3=#VALUE!, 4=#REF!, 5=#NAME?, 6=#NUM!, 7=#N/A, 8=#GETTING_DATA
- Use with CHOOSE function for multiple error message options
- Does not detect newer errors like #SPILL! or #CALC!
- Perfect companion to IFERROR for advanced error diagnostics
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in: Excel 2003 and earlier
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+