The HSTACK function in Excel is a powerful tool designed to combine several arrays or ranges horizontally. This function takes multiple inputs and appends them next to each other, creating a wider array. It is especially useful when users need to consolidate data from different sources or formats into a single, streamlined view.

Syntax

HSTACK(array1, [array2], …)

• array1: The first array or range to be combined.
• array2: (Optional) Additional arrays or ranges to be combined, separated by commas.

Example #1

=HSTACK(A1:B2, D1:D3)

This function joins the range A1:B2 with the range D1:D3, combining two data sets side-by-side. For instance, if A1:B2 contains: | 1 | 2 | |—|—| | 3 | 4 | And D1:D3 contains: | 5 | |—| | 6 | | 7 | The result would be: | 1 | 2 | 5 | |—|—|—| | 3 | 4 | 6 | | | | 7 |

Example #2

=HSTACK(A1:A3, B1:B3, C1:C3)

This example combines three vertical ranges, A1:A3, B1:B3, and C1:C3, side by side. If these ranges hold: | A | B | C | |—|—|—| | 1 | 2 | 3 | | 4 | 5 | 6 | | 7 | 8 | 9 | The output will be: | A | B | C | |—|—|—| | 1 | 2 | 3 | | 4 | 5 | 6 | | 7 | 8 | 9 |

Example #3

=HSTACK(A1:A2, B1)

In this scenario, HSTACK tries to combine a two-row array (A1:A2) with a single cell (B1). If A1:A2 contains: | 1 | |—| | 2 | And B1 contains 3, the outcome will be: | 1 | 3 | |—|—| | 2 | |

Error handling

• VALUE!: This error occurs if the input arrays are of different sizes in terms of rows, and it cannot fill the combined array properly.
• REF!: This indicates that a reference is invalid or deleted. Ensure that all specified ranges exist and are correctly referenced.
• N/A: This error shows up when one of the arrays is empty or not valid, causing the function to fail in concatenation.

Conclusion

The HSTACK function enhances Excel’s data manipulation capabilities significantly, enabling users to create broader arrays by stacking data horizontally. Whether for reporting, data analysis, or simply consolidating information, HSTACK is an essential function for Excel users seeking to streamline their data management process.