How to compare the values in 2 columns in Excel

To compare the values in two columns in Excel, you can use various methods depending on the desired outcome. Here are a few commonly used techniques:

1. Using a formula:

• Create a new column next to the columns you want to compare.
• In the first cell of the new column, enter a formula to compare the values. For example, if your columns are A and B, and you want to compare whether A1 equals B1, enter the formula =A1=B1 in the new column's first cell.
• Drag the formula down to apply it to all the cells in the new column.
• The result will be either “TRUE” if the values are equal or “FALSE” if they are not.

2. Conditional formatting:

• Select the range of cells in one of the columns you want to compare (e.g., column A).
• Go to the “Home” tab in the Excel ribbon and click on “Conditional Formatting” in the “Styles” group.
• Choose “Highlight Cells Rules” and then “Duplicate Values.”
• In the dialog box, select “Duplicate” or “Unique” depending on what you want to highlight.
• Select a formatting style and click “OK.”
• Excel will highlight the cells in column A that have matching or different values in…