SORTBY Function in Excel: Syntax, Examples & Practice
Learn the Excel SORTBY function: Sorts one range by another range. Try focused practice and download a free workbook.
Syntax
=SORTBY(array, by_array1, [sort_order1], …)
Available in Microsoft 365, Excel 2021 and Excel 2024 on desktop. Older perpetual releases may not support this function.
Worked example
| Row | A: Employee | B: Branch | C: Collection |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Amit | Mumbai | 45000 |
| 3 | Priya | Pune | 62000 |
| 4 | Ravi | Nashik | 38000 |
| 5 | Neha | Mumbai | 55000 |
=SORTBY(A2:C5,C2:C5,-1)
Expected result: Priya (62000), Neha (55000), Amit (45000), Ravi (38000)
The formula uses only the visible ranges. Array results need a clear output area in a compatible Excel version.
Professional use
Sort reports by calculated metrics without changing source data.
Practice SORTBY · Download practice .xlsx
Apply your skills
Explore MIS and finance projects
Questions and answers
How can I practise SORTBY?
Use the focused ten-question SORTBY lab, then download its workbook for ten additional function-specific tasks and an answer key. Core learning works without an account.
Which Excel version supports SORTBY?
Available in Microsoft 365, Excel 2021 and Excel 2024 on desktop. Older perpetual releases may not support this function.
Does the browser simulator replace Microsoft Excel?
No. It supports a selected set of formula behavior for practice. Native workbook recalculation, full function compatibility, PivotTables and external data features must be checked in your own Excel installation.
Interactive practice runs in your browser.