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=COLUMNS()

Returns the number of columns in an array or reference.

Applies To: Excel for Microsoft 365Excel for Microsoft 365 for MacExcel 2024Excel 2024 for MacExcel 2021Excel 2021 for MacExcel 2019Excel 2016
=COLUMNS(array)
Hover argument names in the table for details.
Output typeNumber
Popularity35 / 100
VolatileNo
Dynamic ArrayNo
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◧ Arguments

ArgumentTypeRequiredDescription
array Range Required An array or array formula, or a reference to a range of cells for which you want the number of columns.

▣ Examples

Number of columns in the reference C1:E4. =COLUMNS(C1:E4)
Result: 3
Number of columns in the array constant {1,2,3;4,5,6}. There are two 3-column rows, containing 1,2, and 3 in the first row and 4,5, and 6 in the second row. =COLUMNS({1,2,3;4,5,6})
Result: 3

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