Repeatable debugging
Formula Audit Checklist
Use this checklist before rewriting a formula. It separates mechanical syntax, references, data quality and business logic so one problem does not get mistaken for another.
1. Formula shell
- Does the expression begin with
=? - Are parentheses and quoted strings balanced?
- Does the argument separator match the spreadsheet locale?
2. Function and name resolution
- Are function names valid for the current spreadsheet language/version?
- Do named ranges, table names and custom functions exist?
3. References
- Do referenced sheets and ranges still exist?
- Are absolute and relative references intentional before filling/copying?
- Are array ranges aligned in size?
4. Data types
- Are numbers stored as numbers?
- Are dates real serial values rather than display text?
- Do imported strings contain extra spaces or hidden characters?
5. Edge cases
- What happens for blanks, zeros, missing matches and empty filtered results?
- Is error handling masking a condition that should be visible?