INDEX retrieves an element from a range using a specified row and column position. For example, INDEX(A1:D6,4,3) selects the intersection of the fourth row and third column, which is C4. This makes the function useful when positions come from other calculations.

Retrieve an Excel Value by Its Position with INDEX

The position arguments can reference worksheet cells instead of fixed numbers, allowing the selection to change with user input. Keep the source range anchored with absolute references when copying the formula if that range must remain fixed. INDEX also has a reference form, so identify which form and arguments match the intended calculation before combining it with other lookup functions.