Unfortunately, VLOOKUP itself cannot directly search for data across multiple worksheets in Excel. It's designed to look up information within a single table on the same worksheet. However, there are a couple of workarounds you can use to achieve similar results:

1. Combine VLOOKUP with IFERROR:

This method involves using VLOOKUP within an IFERROR statement. Here's how it works:

Create a separate formula for each worksheet: Build a VLOOKUP formula for each worksheet that might contain the data you're looking for. Each formula will search the specific table on its designated worksheet.
Nest VLOOKUPs in IFERROR: Use the IFERROR function to wrap each VLOOKUP formula. IFERROR checks if the VLOOKUP on a particular sheet finds a value. If it doesn't (returns an error), it moves on to the next VLOOKUP formula nested within the IFERROR statement.

Example: Let's say you have data on "Sheet1" and "Sheet2" and want to find a value based on an ID in cell A1. You could create this formula:

Excel

=IFERROR(VLOOKUP(A1,'Sheet1'!A:B,2,FALSE),IFERROR(VLOOKUP(A1,'Sheet2'!A:B,2,FALSE),"Value Not Found"))

This formula first tries to find the value in "Sheet1" using VLOOKUP. If not found (returns an error), it attempts to find it in "Sheet2" using another VLOOKUP nested within the first IFERROR. Finally, if neither sheet has the value, it displays "Value Not Found."

2. Use INDEX and MATCH (Excel 365 or with CTRL+SHIFT+ENTER for earlier versions):

This method is more robust and can handle searching across multiple worksheets. It combines the INDEX and MATCH functions:

INDEX: This function specifies the location (row number) within the table where the desired value might be found.

MATCH: This function helps locate the row number within the table based on your lookup value and criteria (exact match or closest match).

By combining these functions and referencing multiple worksheet tables, you can achieve a lookup across different sheets. It's a bit more complex than VLOOKUP, but it offers more flexibility.

3. Use VLOOKUP with INDIRECT (Excel 365 only):

This method leverages a combination of VLOOKUP and INDIRECT functions (available only in Excel 365). INDIRECT allows you to dynamically reference a cell that contains the sheet name. Here's a basic structure:

Excel code:

=VLOOKUP(lookup_value, INDIRECT("'" & sheet_name_cell & "'!" & table_array), col_index_num, 0)

Replace the placeholders with your specific details:

lookup_value: The value you're searching for.
sheet_name_cell: The cell reference containing the sheet name you want to search in (e.g., B1).

table_array: The data range (including headers) in the target sheet (adjust based on sheet name cell reference).

col_index_num: The column number containing the data you want to retrieve.

4. Use VBA Macros (Advanced):

For highly customized solutions or complex data structures, you can explore writing VBA macros to automate the process of searching across multiple worksheets.

Choosing the Right Method:

The best method depends on your specific needs and Excel version. Here's a quick guide:

Simple consolidation possible? Do it!

Excel 365 user? Try VLOOKUP with INDIRECT (simpler but limited to newer versions).

Need a solution for all Excel versions? Use array formula with MATCH and INDEX (more complex but versatile).

Advanced user? Consider VBA macros for ultimate control.

PivotTables: If you're dealing with summarizing or analyzing data spread across sheets, PivotTables might be a better option. They can consolidate data from multiple sources and allow for flexible data manipulation.

Consolidate Data: If the data across worksheets is related, consider using the "Consolidate" function under the "Data" tab. This can physically combine data from different sheets into a single table, making VLOOKUP a viable option again.

Remember, the best approach depends on the specific structure of your data and what you're trying to achieve. Consider the complexity of your needs and choose the method that best suits your situation.Excel code:=VLOOKUP(lookup_value, INDIRECT("'" & sheet_name_cell & "'!" & table_array), col_index_num, 0)Replace the placeholders with your specific details:lookup_value: The value you're searching for.sheet_name_cell: The cell reference containing the sheet name you want to search in (e.g., B1).table_array: The data range (including headers) in the target sheet (adjust based on sheet name cell reference).col_index_num: The column number containing the data you want to retrieve.4. Use VBA Macros (Advanced):
For highly customized solutions or complex data structures, you can explore writing VBA macros to automate the process of searching across multiple worksheets.Choosing the Right Method:The best method depends on your specific needs and Excel version. Here's a quick guide:Simple consolidation possible? Do it!Excel 365 user? Try VLOOKUP with INDIRECT (simpler but limited to newer versions).Need a solution for all Excel versions? Use array formula with MATCH and INDEX (more complex but versatile).Advanced user? Consider VBA macros for ultimate control.PivotTables: If you're dealing with summarizing or analyzing data spread across sheets, PivotTables might be a better option. They can consolidate data from multiple sources and allow for flexible data manipulation.Consolidate Data: If the data across worksheets is related, consider using the "Consolidate" function under the "Data" tab. This can physically combine data from different sheets into a single table, making VLOOKUP a viable option again.Remember, the best approach depends on the specific structure of your data and what you're trying to achieve. Consider the complexity of your needs and choose the method that best suits your situation.