Syntax
SORT(array, [sort_index], [sort_order], [by_col])
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| array | Parameter of the SORT function. |
| [sort_index] | (Optional.) Parameter of the SORT function. |
| [sort_order] | (Optional.) Parameter of the SORT function. |
| [by_col] | (Optional.) Parameter of the SORT function. |
Examples
Sort names alphabetically
Formula
=SORT(A2:B20, 1, 1)
Returns all rows from A2:B20 sorted by column 1 (names) in ascending order (A to Z).
Sort sales descending
Formula
=SORT(A2:C50, 3, -1)
Returns the data sorted by column 3 (sales) in descending order — highest sales first.
Sort by multiple columns
Formula
=SORT(SORT(A2:D100, 2, 1), 1, 1)
Nested SORT: first sorts by column 2, then by column 1. The outer SORT takes priority. Useful for sorting by department then by name.
Common Errors
#VALUE!
The sort_index is zero or exceeds the number of columns (or rows if sorting by column).
#SPILL!
The destination cells where results would spill are not empty.
Tips
Non-destructive sorting
Unlike the Sort button in the toolbar, SORT creates a sorted copy in a new location. Your original data stays untouched and the sorted view updates automatically.
Use -1 for descending
The sort_order argument uses 1 for ascending and -1 for descending. This is different from TRUE/FALSE used in some older functions.
Combine with FILTER
Use =SORT(FILTER(A2:C100, C2:C100>1000), 3, -1) to first filter rows, then sort the results. This creates a powerful dynamic dashboard view.
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