AshCanyonMike

Assume I have a table of numbers from which I want to select a specific number (for simplicity, I'll assume a table of whole numbers, say 1 thru 10). I need a function that will select a number from this table that is the next lowest to a variable, say 3.33. The function would return the value 3. How can I achieve this?

Firstly you should change the title of your thread to something that describes your problem.

Secondly try this:

=MAX(IF($A$1:$C$3<$E$1,$A$1:$C$3)) assuming your table is in A1:C3 and your constraint is in E1. And confirm with Ctrl+Shift+Enter

Your post does not comply with Rule 1 of our Forum RULES. Your post title should accurately and concisely describe your problem, not your anticipated solution. Use terms appropriate to a Google search. Poor thread titles, like Please Help, Urgent, Need Help, Formula Problem, Code Problem, and Need Advice will be addressed according to the OP's experience in the forum: If you have less than 10 posts, expect (and respond to) a request to change your thread title. If you have 10 or more posts, expect your post to be locked, so you can start a new thread with an appropriate title.
To change a Title on your post, click EDIT then Go Advanced and change your title, if 2 days have passed ask a moderator to do it for you.