Google Sheets Function

OFFSET

Returns a reference to a range that is a specified number of rows and columns from a cell or range of cells.

Generate a formula with AI Same function in Excel

This function works the same in Google Sheets as it does in Excel — same syntax and arguments.

Syntax

OFFSET(reference, rows, cols, [height], [width])

The OFFSET function does not move any cells or change the selection; it simply returns a reference. It is a volatile function that recalculates every time the worksheet changes, making it useful for creating dynamic ranges.

Arguments

referencerequiredThe starting reference from which you want to base the offset.
rowsrequiredThe number of rows, up or down, that you want the upper-left cell to refer to.
colsrequiredThe number of columns, to the left or right, that you want the upper-left cell to refer to.

Examples

=OFFSET(A1, 2, 1)

Result: B3

Returns the value in the cell two rows down and one column to the right of A1.

FAQ

Is OFFSET a volatile function?

Yes, OFFSET recalculates every time any change is made to the worksheet, which can slow down large workbooks.

Related functions

INDEX INDIRECT CHOOSE