NAMES

Macro Sheets Only

Returns, as a horizontal array of text, the specified names defined in the specified workbook. The returned array lists the names in alphabetic order. Use NAMES instead of LIST.NAMES when you want to return the names to the macro sheet instead of to the active worksheet.

Syntax

NAMES(document_text, type_num, match_text)

Document_text is text that specifies the workbook whose names you want returned. If document_text is omitted, it is assumed to be the active workbook.

Type_num is a number from 1 to 3 that specifies whether to include hidden names in the returned array.

If type_num is NAMES returns

1 or omitted Normal names only

2 Hidden names only

3 All names

Match_text is text that specifies the names you want returned and can include wildcard characters. If match_text is omitted, all names are returned.

Remarks

• Hidden names are defined using the DEFINE.NAME macro function and do not appear in the Paste Name, Define Name, or Go To dialog boxes.
• NAMES returns a horizontal array, so you will normally enter this function as an array in several horizontal cells or define a name to refer to the array that NAMES returns. If you want the names in a vertical array instead, use the TRANSPOSE function.
• You can use the COLUMNS function to count the number of entries in the horizontal array.

Example

The following macro formula returns all names on the active workbook starting with the letter P.

NAMES(, 3, "P*")

Related Functions

DEFINE.NAME Defines a name on the active worksheet or macro sheet

DELETE.NAME Deletes a name

GET.DEF Returns a name matching a definition

GET.NAME Returns the definition of a name

LIST.NAMES Lists names and their associated information

SET.NAME Defines a name as a value

List of Information Functions