Excel EXACT Function

EXACT compares two text values and returns TRUE only when they match exactly.

Use it to catch capitalization differences, extra spaces, or small text mismatches that a normal equals comparison may not make obvious.

1
Choose the first text This is the baseline value
2
Compare the second text Excel checks each character
3
Return TRUE or FALSE Capitalization and spacing must match

EXACT syntax & arguments

Syntax

=EXACT(text1, text2)
Required Optional
  1. 1

    text1

    Required

    The first text value, cell reference, or formula result to compare.

  2. 2

    text2

    Required

    The second text value, cell reference, or formula result to compare against text1.

Example

=EXACT(A2, B2)

Return TRUE only when A2 and B2 contain the same text with the same capitalization.

EXACT caveats

  • Capitalization matters

    "SKU-01" and "sku-01" return FALSE because EXACT is case-sensitive.

  • Spaces count as characters

    Leading, trailing, or repeated spaces can make values fail the comparison. Use TRIM first when spacing should be normalized.

  • Formatting is ignored

    Bold text, fill color, and number formats are not part of the compared text value.

Need case-insensitive cleanup? Normalize both sides with UPPER or LOWER before comparing.

Intro EXACT practice problem

Solve the intro problem directly here, or open it on its own page.

Open full problem

Intro Exact Matches

EXACT
Intro ☆☆☆
Pending

Advanced EXACT practice problems

Use EXACT alongside other Excel functions in realistic, less-prescriptive challenges.

Allow List Validation Pro problem

NOT COUNTIF IF AND OR EXACT
Medium ★★☆
Pending

Code Approval Check Pro problem

EXACT TRIM IF AND
Medium ★★☆
Pending