Excel SEQUENCE Function
last modified April 4, 2025
The SEQUENCE function is a powerful dynamic array function in Excel
that generates a sequence of numbers. It automatically spills the results into
adjacent cells. This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to using the
SEQUENCE function with detailed examples. You'll learn basic
syntax, practical applications, and advanced techniques to master this modern
Excel function.
SEQUENCE Function Basics
The SEQUENCE function generates a list of sequential numbers in an
array. It can create one-dimensional or two-dimensional sequences with control
over start value and step size. The syntax is flexible for various use cases.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Function Name | SEQUENCE |
| Syntax | =SEQUENCE(rows,[columns],[start],[step]) |
| Arguments | rows (required), columns, start, step |
| Return Value | Array of sequential numbers |
This table breaks down the essential components of the SEQUENCE
function. It shows the function name, basic syntax format, argument parameters,
and return value characteristics.
Basic SEQUENCE Example
This example demonstrates the simplest use of the SEQUENCE function to generate a vertical list of numbers.
=SEQUENCE(5)
This formula creates a sequence of 5 numbers starting from 1 in a single column. The result will be numbers 1 through 5 vertically. This shows the minimal required argument for SEQUENCE.
| A |
|---|
| 1 |
| 2 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
Two-Dimensional Sequence
SEQUENCE can generate a grid of numbers by specifying both rows and columns. This example creates a 3x3 matrix.
=SEQUENCE(3,3)
This formula generates a 3-row by 3-column array starting from 1. The numbers fill left to right, then top to bottom. The result is a perfect square number grid.
| A | B | C |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 |
| 4 | 5 | 6 |
| 7 | 8 | 9 |
Sequence with Custom Start and Step
You can control the starting value and increment of the sequence. This example shows a sequence starting at 10 with steps of 5.
=SEQUENCE(4,1,10,5)
This formula creates a 4-row, 1-column sequence starting at 10 with each subsequent number increasing by 5. The result demonstrates precise control over sequence parameters.
| A |
|---|
| 10 |
| 15 |
| 20 |
| 25 |
Descending Sequence
SEQUENCE can generate decreasing sequences by using a negative step value. This example counts down from 100.
=SEQUENCE(5,1,100,-20)
This formula creates a 5-number sequence starting at 100 and decreasing by 20 each step. The negative step parameter enables reverse counting functionality.
| A |
|---|
| 100 |
| 80 |
| 60 |
| 40 |
| 20 |
Date Sequence
SEQUENCE works with dates since Excel stores them as numbers. This example generates a week's dates starting from a specific day.
=SEQUENCE(7,1,DATE(2025,1,1),1)
This formula creates a 7-day sequence starting from January 1, 2025. The step of 1 represents daily increments. Format the cells as dates to display properly.
| A |
|---|
| 1/1/2025 |
| 1/2/2025 |
| 1/3/2025 |
| 1/4/2025 |
| 1/5/2025 |
| 1/6/2025 |
| 1/7/2025 |
Combining SEQUENCE with Other Functions
SEQUENCE becomes even more powerful when combined with other functions. This example creates a multiplication table.
=SEQUENCE(10)*SEQUENCE(1,10)
This formula multiplies a vertical sequence (1-10) by a horizontal sequence (1-10). The result is a 10x10 multiplication table demonstrating array operations.
| A | B | C | ... | J |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | ... | 10 |
| 2 | 4 | 6 | ... | 20 |
| 3 | 6 | 9 | ... | 30 |
| ... | ... | ... | ... | ... |
| 10 | 20 | 30 | ... | 100 |
The SEQUENCE function revolutionizes how we generate number series
in Excel. From simple lists to complex dynamic arrays, it offers precise
control over sequence generation. Mastering SEQUENCE will significantly enhance
your ability to work with structured data in modern Excel versions.
Author
List all Excel Formulas.