Google Sheets VSTACK Function: Syntax, Examples & Tips

The VSTACK function vertically combines multiple ranges or arrays into a single column, stacking them on top of each other.
Google Sheets
VSTACK(range1; [range2, …])

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On this page
  1. Parameters
  2. What is a VSTACK?
  3. A Practical Example
  4. VSTACK Formula
  5. Result of the Formula
  6. Why Use VSTACK?
  7. Key Takeaways:
  8. Example use case

Parameters

range1:
The first range of cells that you want to stack vertically.

range2:
An optional additional range of cells that you want to stack vertically with range1. You can include multiple additional ranges separated by commas.

What is a VSTACK?

The VSTACK function in Google Sheets is a useful tool that allows users to vertically stack multiple ranges or arrays into a single column. This function simplifies the process of combining data from different sources or sections of a spreadsheet into one cohesive list. It is particularly beneficial when dealing with data that is spread across different sheets or areas within a sheet.

In simpler terms, VSTACK enables you to merge multiple sets of data into one vertical list, making it easier to analyze and manage your information.

A Practical Example

Imagine you are managing a list of employees in different departments stored in separate sheets:

Sales Department:

EmployeeIDEmployeeNameSalary
001Alice50000
002Bob55000

Marketing Department:

EmployeeIDEmployeeNameSalary
003Charlie60000
004Dana65000

You want to create a single list of all employees from both departments.

VSTACK Formula

To achieve this, you would use the VSTACK function as follows:

Google Sheets
=VSTACK(Sales!A2:C3, Marketing!A2:C3)

In this formula:

  • Sales!A2:C3 is the range containing the employee data from the Sales Department.
  • Marketing!A2:C3 is the range containing the employee data from the Marketing Department.

Result of the Formula

When you apply the VSTACK formula, the output would look like this:

EmployeeIDEmployeeNameSalary
001Alice50000
002Bob55000
003Charlie60000
004Dana65000

Now you have a consolidated list of all employees from both departments in one vertical stack.

Why Use VSTACK?

VSTACK is beneficial because it streamlines the process of combining data from different sources. It eliminates the need for manual copying and pasting, reducing the risk of errors. Additionally, it allows for dynamic updates; if any data in the original ranges changes, the VSTACK output will automatically reflect those changes.

Key Takeaways:

  • VSTACK: A Google Sheets function that vertically combines multiple ranges or arrays into a single column.
  • Efficiency: Saves time by automating the process of merging data from different sources.
  • Dynamic Updates: Automatically updates the combined list when the original data changes.
  • Common Use Cases: Ideal for consolidating data from different departments, project lists, or any scenario where data needs to be combined into one view.

VSTACK is an essential function for anyone working with data in Google Sheets, providing a powerful way to enhance data organization and analysis.

Happy spreadsheeting!

Example use case

You have multiple tables of sales data for different regions in separate sheets. Using VSTACK, you can combine these tables into one master sheet, allowing for easier analysis and reporting of total sales across all regions without manual copying.

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