This looks like the "numbers in one column, numbers as text in the other"
situation.

One way to 'fix' this is to make sure that all are numbers in both columns.
Start by formatting those columns as General. Then perform this operation on
both sheets, one at a time:
pick an unused cell and enter the number 1 into it. Chose that cell and
Copy it.
Select all of the account numbers in column A on that sheet and use:
Edit -- Paste Special and select the "Multiply" option and press [OK].

That will force the numbers-as-text to become real numbers.

You can clear out the cell that you entered the 1 into after you're done
with each sheet.


"tonyagrey" wrote:

Ok,
Sample from Column A of Cognos sheet
Acc No
656918
650095
646211
716733
716297

Sample from Column A of other sheet
524528
525036
551997
514710

?

--
Tony


"JLatham" wrote:

The formula is structured properly. Typical reasons for "can't get the thing
to work" a
you have numbers in column A, but numbers formatted as text on the Cognos
sheet column A or vice-versa;
you're comparing text and in one of the columns there may be added space
characters in front/behind the text that aren't on the other sheet;
the formula isn't being used properly - as the type of information to be
matched is not in the first column of the lookup table.

It would really help to know what kind of entries are in column A on both
sheets.

"tonyagrey" wrote:

WHats wrong with this formaula? Cant get the thing to work

=VLOOKUP(A2,Cognos!$A$3:$J$763,2,FALSE)
--
Tony