Can I sort a table based on a value calculated in a custom function?

[Carson Dyle]

I have a table containing an NFL football roster. I want to group players by position group and then sort the groups into a specific order. Right now I do it with a user function that places values into a hidden column and I sort the table by that column. If possible, I'd like to eliminate the hidden column.

Below is the function, which effectively groups players in similar positions, and returns a number by which to sort them. The column on which I sort just contains a formula referring to the adjacent column with their position: =PositionSort(E24).

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[alansidman]

Scroll down in this link to Custom Sort

https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/excel2013/sorting-data/1/

[Carson Dyle]

Thanks. I'm not sure that would also give me the grouping that I need. I forgot to mention that I sort by that column, then by name, so the position groups are also in alphabetic order.

Also, my sorts of the table (I have several defined) are set up through a function defining which columns to use and their orderings, so I'd need to create and use this custom list in some way other than through the wizard/dialog boxess.

[Carson Dyle]

Example workbook attached, containing the sorting functions used. Currently in the sort order I'm talking about - position group, then name. Normally, helper column F is hidden.

[JohnTopley]

As far as I can judge, you need the helper column as there is no other way of achieving your objective where multiple positions have the same sort parameter.

The helper column can be positioned anywhere "out of sight".