How to Use the INDIRECT Function in WPS on Windows

Last updated:July 17, 2026

Use the INDIRECT function through 4 how-to topics, including entering the function, filling in parameters, using cross-sheet references, and checking results; choose a topic from the index and follow the entry path and steps.

How-to Index

No.TopicMembership Requirement
11. Enter the INDIRECT functionFree
22. Fill in function parametersFree
33. Use a cross-sheet referenceFree
44. Check and update calculation resultsFree

How-to Guide

1. Enter the INDIRECT function

Entry path: Formulas tab → formula bar

  1. Open Spreadsheet and select the cell where you want the result to appear.
  2. Type = in the selected cell or in the formula bar.
  3. Continue by typing INDIRECT(.
  4. Review the syntax prompt that appears and confirm the function name and parameter format.

Success Criteria

  • On-screen result: The cell enters formula editing mode and shows INDIRECT(.
  • What you can do next: You can continue entering parameters and complete the formula.

Tips While Using

  • Common mistake: If you do not start with =, the content may be treated as plain text.
  • Environment note: You need to work in an editable spreadsheet cell.

2. Fill in function parameters

Entry path: Selected target cell → formula bar

  1. After INDIRECT(, enter the text that represents the reference address.
  2. Add the required parameter format as needed.
  3. Check that parentheses, quotation marks, and separators are complete.
  4. Press Enter to confirm the formula.

Success Criteria

  • On-screen result: The cell shows a calculated result instead of unfinished formula text.
  • What you can do next: You can select the cell again and review the full formula in the formula bar.

Tips While Using

  • Common mistake: Mismatched parentheses, incorrect separators, or invalid reference text can cause errors.
  • Environment note: The text parameter must match a valid reference in the current spreadsheet context.

3. Use a cross-sheet reference

Entry path: Formulas tab → formula bar

  1. Identify the worksheet name and cell address that you want to reference.
  2. Enter the worksheet name and cell address as text inside the formula parameter.
  3. Confirm that the text reference points to an existing worksheet and cell.
  4. Submit the formula and review the returned result.

Success Criteria

  • On-screen result: The current cell returns the content from the target worksheet cell or range.
  • What you can do next: You can copy the formula or combine it with other functions.

Tips While Using

  • Common mistake: A worksheet name or address that does not match exactly can cause the reference to fail.
  • Environment note: The referenced content needs to exist in a valid worksheet in the current workbook.

4. Check and update calculation results

Entry path: Result cell → formula bar / worksheet data area

  1. Change the referenced cell or related source data.
  2. Return to the result cell that contains INDIRECT and review the updated value.
  3. If the result looks incorrect, check the reference text, parameter count, and nested formula structure.
  4. Edit the formula again if needed and confirm it once more.

Success Criteria

  • On-screen result: After source data changes, the result cell shows the updated value or an appropriate error message.
  • What you can do next: You can continue troubleshooting, copying, or extending the formula.

Tips While Using

  • Common mistake: Mixing numbers, text, and reference addresses incorrectly can produce unexpected results.
  • Environment note: Circular references or invalid addresses can affect the result.