ISNA in WPS on Windows FAQ

Last updated:July 17, 2026

Common questions about ISNA usually involve formula errors, parameter entry, result meanings, and nested formula behavior. This FAQ includes 4 common questions and a glossary.

FAQ

What should I do if ISNA shows an error after I enter it?

  1. Check whether the formula starts with =.
  2. Make sure the parentheses are paired correctly and the parameter is in the right position.
  3. Confirm that you entered a valid cell reference, constant, or formula result.
  4. If a syntax prompt appears, re-enter the formula based on that prompt and press Enter again.

How can I view the ISNA function description?

  1. Select any cell.
  2. Enter =ISNA( in the formula bar.
  3. Review the syntax prompt and parameter guidance that appears.
  4. Complete the parameter and test the result.

What do TRUE and FALSE mean in ISNA?

  1. ISNA returns TRUE when the tested value is the #N/A error.
  2. ISNA returns FALSE when the tested value is not the #N/A error.
  3. If you want a more readable result, combine ISNA with IF.

Why does my nested ISNA formula not return the expected result?

  1. Test the ISNA part by itself in a separate cell first.
  2. Then check whether the outer IF or other function uses the correct logic branch.
  3. Confirm that the referenced cell is not entered as text by mistake and that the reference range is correct.
  4. After data changes, review whether the result updates as expected.

Glossary

TermDefinition
ISNAA function that checks whether a value is the #N/A error and returns TRUE or FALSE.
#N/AAn error type that indicates a value is not available or was not found, often after a lookup.
Nested formulaA formula structure that uses one function inside another to handle more complex logic or calculations.
Cross-sheet referenceA reference that uses a cell from another worksheet in the current formula.