Vlookup value column is not the first column

[hqradio]

I want to set up a vlookup to a closed workbook.

the problem is that the lookup value column is not the column to the left to the data, E.g. the lookup value is in column D but i want returned column A.

any ideas?

[icestationzbra]

use INDEX / MATCH, instead of VLOOKUP.

for best suggestions, share a sample workbook.

[hqradio]

Ive attached a sample file.

please keep in mind that the data is coming from a closed workbook and has to get updated as it is updated

[icestationzbra]

try this.

do not use whole sheet ranges for lookup; they are inimical to performance. i have setup a dynamic range that will expand as your data expand. i have assumed that you will always have a value in the "lastname" column.