# Google Sheets EXACT Function: Syntax, Examples & Tips - URL: https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/exact-function - Author: Better Analyst Formula Bot is now Better Analyst—same account, more powerful analysis.Formula Bot is now Better Analyst—same account and workflows, with more powerful analysis, dashboards, and automation. [Learn what changed](https://betteranalyst.com/formula-bot-is-now-better-analyst) The EXACT function compares two text strings and returns TRUE if they are identical, or FALSE if they are not. ``` EXACT(string1, string2) ``` Generate FormulaExplain Formula One free generation or explanation per browser, shared across Excel and Google Sheets. Account usage limits apply afterward. Describe the EXACT you need in plain EnglishGenerate Formula ## Parameters **`string1`**:\ The first string that you want to compare. This can be a text string, a cell reference, or a formula that returns a string. **`string2`**:\ The second string that you want to compare against the first string. This can also be a text string, a cell reference, or a formula that returns a string. ## What is an EXACT Function? The *EXACT* function in Google Sheets is a useful tool that checks whether two text strings are exactly the same. It is case-sensitive, meaning that it distinguishes between uppercase and lowercase letters. This function is particularly helpful when you need to ensure that data entries match precisely, such as when validating user input or comparing lists. In simpler terms, the EXACT function allows you to compare two pieces of text and determine if they are identical. ## A Practical Example Imagine you are managing a list of usernames for a website and you want to verify if the entered username matches the existing usernames in your database. ### Usernames Table: | Username | | - | | user123 | | AdminUser | | testUser | ### Input Table: | InputUsername | | - | | user123 | | adminuser | You want to check if the usernames entered in the Input Table match the usernames in the Usernames Table. ## EXACT Formula To achieve this, you would use the EXACT function as follows: ``` =EXACT(A2, Usernames!A:A) ``` In this formula: - `A2` is the cell containing the InputUsername you want to compare. - `Usernames!A:A` is the range where the function will look for matching usernames in the Usernames Table. ## Result of the Formula When you apply the EXACT formula to the Input Table, the output would look like this: | InputUsername | Match | | - | - | | user123 | TRUE | | adminuser | FALSE | In this case, the first username matches exactly (case-sensitive), while the second one does not match due to the difference in capitalization. ## Why Use EXACT? EXACT is beneficial because it provides a straightforward way to compare text strings with precision. It is particularly useful in scenarios where case sensitivity matters, such as password validation or ensuring data integrity. By using the EXACT function, you can easily identify discrepancies in data entries. ## Key Takeaways: - **EXACT**: A function that checks if two text strings are exactly the same, considering case sensitivity. - **Precision**: Ideal for scenarios where exact matches are required, such as username or password validation. - **Data Integrity**: Helps maintain accurate data by identifying mismatches in text entries. The EXACT function is an essential tool for anyone working with text data in Google Sheets, providing a reliable way to ensure data accuracy and consistency. Happy spreadsheeting! ## Example use case You have a list of product codes in Column A and their descriptions in Column B. Use the EXACT formula to check if a newly entered product code matches any existing codes, ensuring accurate inventory tracking and preventing duplicates in your database. ## Need more help with Google Sheets formulas? Sign up for Better Analyst and get unlimited AI-powered formula generation, explanations, and advanced data analysis. [Create Free Account](https://betteranalyst.com/signup)[Try Formula Generator](https://betteranalyst.com/excel-ai) ## Google Sheets how-to guides - [How To Find Circular References In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-find-circular-references-in-google-sheets) - [How To Find Duplicates In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-find-duplicates-in-google-sheets) - [How To Freeze A Row In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-freeze-a-row-in-google-sheets) - [How To Freeze Panes In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-freeze-panes-in-google-sheets) - [How To Highlight Duplicates In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-highlight-duplicates-in-google-sheets) - [How To Insert Checkbox In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-insert-checkbox-in-google-sheets) - [How To Insert Multiple Rows In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-insert-multiple-rows-in-google-sheets) - [How To Lock A Row In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-lock-a-row-in-google-sheets) ## Explore all Google Sheets formulas Browse our complete library of Google Sheets formula guides Compare your options ## Decide with evidence, not a sales pitch. 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