One vlookup formula for multiple different workbook locations

[Weaselwithagun]

Hello,

Is the above possible? I've got a list of names that all belong to different workbooks, I want to create one vlookup (or something like it), that I can copy down instead of having to change the name of the workbook each time I switch to a different name.

Something like:

=Vlookup(My cell A1,"name of workbook with specific tab and cell location",2,0)

so when I copy the formula down the to next name the 'name of workbook with specific tab & cell location', updates to reflect the new name.

Does this make sense, and if so is it even possible??

Thanks

[AliGW]

Yes, it is possible with the INDIRECT function, however ONLY on workbooks that are already open.

[Weaselwithagun]

So if the formula was in place, and then I opened the workbooks it would update?

[AliGW]

The source workbooks would need to be open before you opened the master workbook with the formula otherwise you'd just get an error message.

Are you working with Excel 2010 or something newer? There is always Ppwer Query for things like this.

[Weaselwithagun]

Using Excel 2013 - what's Ppwer Query, another application?

[AliGW]

No - if you have 2013, then you have PowerQuery. Please update your forum user profile to reflect this.

OK - I think it's time we saw a sample workbook to get a sense of what you need here, then we can advise.

PQ is also called Get & Transform, and it's on the Data ribbon.

[Weaselwithagun]

Huge thanks for the education, but will have to come back to you on the specifics

[AliGW]

OK - leave the thread unsolved and add the extra details when you can.