Try something like this:
D1: =CHOOSE(MAX(SEARCH(A1:C1,"XPMD")),"Refer","Pass"," Merit","Distinction")

Note: Commit that array formula by holding down the [Ctrl][Shift] keys and
press [Enter].


Does that help?

***********
Regards,
Ron

XL2002, WinXP-Pro


"tomo" wrote:


i have another problem

what is the formula if i have three grades and in A1.B1 & C1. i need a
final grade answer in D1. I need a formula which could result in any of
the answers below related to the recorded grade

A B C D
1 P M D = Distinction

or
A B C D
1 P M X = Merit

or
A B C D
1 P x x = Pass

or
A B C D
1 x x x = Refer


hope someone can help

tomo


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tomo