This guide covers everything you need to know about the Google Sheets TRUE function, including its definition, syntax, use cases, and how to use it.
What is the TRUE Function? How Does It Work?
The TRUE function in Google Sheets returns the logical value TRUE. This function is primarily used to work with conditions and logic in the spreadsheet. In essence, it is a basic but integral part of many logical functions and expressions within Google Sheets. It is essential in constructing logical tests, performing comparisons, and running checks within a spreadsheet.
The TRUE function, as the name suggests, reflects a positive or affirmative state. When you use this function in your Google Sheets, the cell will display the value TRUE.
For example, you could use the TRUE function as part of an IF function to create a conditional statement. Alternatively, it can be used alongside the AND or OR functions to create logical conditions involving multiple parameters.
In most cases, Google Sheets will automatically convert the TRUE literal to the logical TRUE value, equivalent to this function. It means that if you manually type the word TRUE in a cell, Google Sheets will recognize it as the logical value TRUE and not a text string.
This function becomes exceptionally useful when combined with others to manage and analyze data. For instance, you might use the TRUE function combined with other functions to filter data, perform calculations, or create conditional formatting rules.
TRUE Syntax
The syntax and arguments for the function are as follows:
Syntax
TRUE()
There are no arguments for the TRUE function in Google Sheets. It simply returns the logical value TRUE.
Usage notes related to syntax and arguments:
- The TRUE function does not require any arguments. You simply type TRUE().
- The function returns the logical value TRUE, which can be used in logical expressions.
- In most cases, Google Sheets will automatically convert the TRUE literal to the logical TRUE value, equivalent to this function. This means that if you type “TRUE” into a cell without the function syntax, Google Sheets will still interpret it as the logical value TRUE.
- The TRUE function is case-insensitive. This means that TRUE(), True(), and true() will all return the same result.
- The TRUE function does not take any input values. If you try to put an argument inside the parentheses, Google Sheets will return an error.
- The function can be used in combination with logical operators (like AND, OR, NOT) and other functions that expect a logical value as an argument.
Examples of How to Use the TRUE Function
Here are some practical examples of how to use the TRUE function in Google Sheets.
Example #1: Basic Use of TRUE Function
The most basic use of the TRUE function is to insert the Boolean value TRUE into a cell. In a new cell, type the following formula:
=TRUE()
Press enter, and the cell will display TRUE. This can be useful in creating logical statements or conditions in your spreadsheet.
Example #2: Using TRUE in IF Statements
The TRUE function can be used in IF statements to create a condition. For example, you might want to check if a certain cell contains a specific value. If it does, you want Google Sheets to return TRUE. Here’s how you can do this:
=IF(A1=”Apple”, TRUE(), FALSE())
In this example, if cell A1 contains the word “Apple”, the formula will return TRUE. Otherwise, it will return FALSE.
Example #3: Using TRUE with AND Function
The TRUE function can be used with the AND function to test multiple conditions. For instance, you can check if two conditions are both TRUE. Here’s an example:
=AND(A1>10, B1<20, TRUE())
In this case, if cell A1 is greater than 10, cell B1 is less than 20, and the TRUE function is TRUE, the formula will return TRUE. If any of these conditions are not met, the formula will return FALSE.
Example #4: Using TRUE with OR Function
Similarly, you can use the TRUE function with the OR function to check if at least one condition is TRUE. For example:
=OR(A1>10, B1<20, TRUE())
In this example, if either cell A1 is greater than 10, cell B1 is less than 20, or the TRUE function is TRUE, the formula will return TRUE. Otherwise, it will return FALSE.
Remember, the TRUE function doesn’t require any arguments and will always return the Boolean value TRUE. It’s often used in combination with other functions to create logical conditions or statements in Google Sheets.
TRUE: Common Mistakes & Problems
When using the TRUE function in Google Sheets, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes related to using this function:
- Incorrect Use in Conditional Formatting: If you’re using TRUE in conditional formatting, make sure you’re using it correctly. For instance, if you want to highlight cells that contain a specific value, you can use a formula that returns TRUE when the condition is met. If your conditional formatting isn’t working as expected, check your formula for any errors.
- Misunderstanding TRUE as a value: While TRUE is a function, it also represents a logical value. This means it can be used in formulas where a logical value is required. However, some users might misunderstand this and use TRUE, where a numerical or text value is expected, resulting in errors.
- Ignoring case sensitivity: Google Sheets functions are not case-sensitive, so TRUE, True, and true all mean the same thing and will work the same way. However, if you’re accustomed to using a program that is case-sensitive, this might lead to confusion.
- Using TRUE in non-logical functions: TRUE is a logical function and returns a logical value. It’s not designed to be used in non-logical functions. If you attempt to use TRUE in a function that requires a numerical or text value, you’ll likely encounter an error.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can use the TRUE function in Google Sheets more effectively and accurately.
Why TRUE Is Not Working? Troubleshooting Common Errors
If you’re experiencing issues when using the TRUE function in Google Sheets, there are several common errors you could be encountering. This section will help you identify these errors, understand their causes, and provide solutions to resolve them.
#VALUE! Error
Cause: The #VALUE! error typically occurs when the TRUE function is used with incorrect syntax or arguments. For instance, if you’re inputting a value or a string of text as an argument in the TRUE function, Google Sheets will not be able to process the function and will return a #VALUE! error.
Solution: To resolve this error, ensure that the TRUE function is used without any argument. The TRUE function does not require any inputs to return the Boolean value of TRUE. Simply type =TRUE() in a cell to get the correct output.
#REF! Error
Cause: A #REF! error is displayed when the TRUE function is referencing a cell that does not exist or is not accessible. This could happen if you’ve deleted a row, column, or sheet that the TRUE function was referencing.
Solution: Check your formula to ensure that all referenced cells, columns, or sheets exist and are accessible. Amend the formula if you find any references to deleted or inaccessible cells.
#NAME? Error
Cause: This error usually appears when Google Sheets doesn’t recognize the text in the formula. This could be due to misspelling the function name, such as typing “TRU” instead of “TRUE”.
Solution: Double-check your formula for any spelling mistakes. The function should be written as TRUE without any arguments. Correct the spelling if necessary.
#DIV/0! Error
Cause: The #DIV/0! error is often encountered when a number is divided by zero. However, as the TRUE function does not involve any mathematical operations, encountering this error with the TRUE function is very unlikely.
Solution: If you’re encountering this error with the TRUE function, it is likely due to a larger formula or function that includes division by zero. Review your formula to identify any instances where a number is divided by zero and adjust as necessary.
#N/A Error
Cause: The #N/A error appears when a value is not available to a function or formula. If you’re seeing this error while using the TRUE function, it could be due to using the TRUE function in a larger formula where a required value is not available.
Solution: Identify the part of your formula where the required value is not available. You might need to provide the missing value or adjust your formula to handle missing values appropriately.
#NUM! Error
Cause: This error is displayed when a formula or function results in a number that’s too large or too small to be represented in Google Sheets. However, since the TRUE function does not perform mathematical calculations, encountering this error with the TRUE function is very unlikely.
Solution: If you see this error in relation to the TRUE function, it’s probably part of a larger formula. Review your formula to identify any calculations resulting in a number that’s too large or too small, and adjust your formula accordingly.
For more details on the true function, check out the official documentation at the Google Docs Editors Help Center.
