Maximize Excel: LET and LAMBDA Functions
Presented by David H. Ringstrom, CPA
 
Event Date/Time: 11/18/25 3:00 PM Eastern
Duration: 100 minutes
 
Get up to speed on the LET and LAMBDA functions in Microsoft 365. In this presentation Excel expert David H. Ringstrom, CPA sets the stage by explaining the concept of using range names in any version of Excel. Range names simplify formula writing and create navigation aids. The LET function lets you create nicknames, similar to range names, within formulas. These nicknames can stand in for inputs, or even calculations, so that you don't have to repeat portions of a formula. Conversely, the LAMBDA function enables you to create custom worksheet functions in Excel without having to write any code. LAMBDA functions can be transferred between workbooks in Excel.
 
David demonstrates every technique at least twice: first, on a PowerPoint slide with numbered steps, and second, in the subscription-based Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365) version of Excel. David draws your attention to any differences in the older versions of Excel (2021, 2019, 2016 and earlier) during the presentation as well as in his detailed handouts. David also provides an Excel workbook that includes most of the examples he uses during the webcast.
 
Microsoft 365 is a subscription-based product that provides new feature updates as often as monthly. Conversely, the perpetual licensed versions of Excel have feature sets that don't change. Perpetual licensed versions have year numbers, such as Excel 2021, Excel 2019, and so on.
 
Who should attend:
Practitioners seeking to stay up to date on the latest functionality in Excel.
 
Topics typically covered:
 
• Avoiding the complexity of nested IF statements with Excel’s CHOOSE function.
 
• Create your own custom worksheet functions without writing any code in Microsoft 365 with the LAMBDA function.
 
• Creating bookmarks and nicknames for key inputs by way of the Create Names from Selection feature.
 
• Documenting IF functions by using LET to assign nicknames to the inputs.
 
• Exploring  the XLOOKUP worksheet function in Excel 2021 and Microsoft 365.
 
• Exploring the risks and benefits of participating in the free Microsoft Office Insider program.
 
• Incorporating decisions into calculations with Excel's IF function.
 
• Matching on two or more columns of criteria at once with XLOOKUP.
 
• Moving LAMBDA functions between workbooks.
 
• Replacing unwieldy nested IF formulas with the SWITCH function in Excel 2019 and later.
 
• Streamline formula writing with by creating nicknames for repetitive values with the LET function in Microsoft 365.
 
• Streamlining the decision-making process with the IFS function in Excel 2021 and Microsoft 365.
 
Learning objectives:
• Define the arguments used in the LET function.
• Recall the steps necessary to create range names in Excel.
• State how to use the LAMBDA function to create custom worksheet functions.
 
 
Level:
Advanced
 
NASBA Field of Study:
Specialized Knowledge and Applications (1 Hour)
 
Program Prerequisites:
Extensive prior experience with Microsoft Excel
 
Advance Preparation:
None