How to Use the CHOOSECOLS Function in WPS on Windows

Use the CHOOSECOLS function in WPS with 4 how-to topics, all available in AirSheet; choose a topic from the index and follow the entry point and steps to complete the task.

How-to Index

How-to Guide

1. Enter the CHOOSECOLS function

Entry point: Formulas tab → formula bar

1. Open an AirSheet file and select the cell where you want the result to appear.
2. Type = in the cell or formula bar.
3. Type CHOOSECOLS( to start the formula.
4. Enter the array or range that you want to reference.

Success Criteria

• UI state: The cell enters formula editing mode and shows the function name.
• Next actions: You can continue entering column numbers or other arguments.

Tips While Using

• Common mistakes: If you do not start with =, the content may be treated as plain text.

2. Check syntax prompts and complete the arguments

Entry point: Formula input state in the formula bar or cell

1. After typing CHOOSECOLS(, look at the syntax prompt that appears.
2. Confirm the required argument order and count.
3. Enter the correct column arguments and check that brackets and separators are complete.
4. Press Enter to confirm the formula.

Success Criteria

• UI state: The formula is accepted and the cell shows a calculated result instead of an error.
• Next actions: You can select the cell again to review or edit the formula.

Tips While Using

• Common mistakes: Missing brackets, missing separators, or the wrong number of arguments can prevent the formula from calculating correctly.

3. Use the function across worksheets

Entry point: Formulas tab → formula bar

1. Select the target result cell and type =CHOOSECOLS(.
2. Switch to the worksheet that contains the source data and select the target range.
3. Return to the current formula input and enter the column arguments.
4. Press Enter and review the returned result.

Success Criteria

• UI state: The result cell returns the selected columns from the referenced worksheet.
• Next actions: You can continue combining the result with other spreadsheet formulas.

Tips While Using

• Common mistakes: If the referenced range does not match the column arguments, the returned result may not match your expectation.

4. Check automatic result updates

Entry point: A completed CHOOSECOLS result cell

1. Finish entering the CHOOSECOLS formula and confirm that the result is visible.
2. Change the original data in the referenced range.
3. Return to the result area and review the displayed content.
4. If needed, check the reference range and arguments again.

Success Criteria

• UI state: When the source data changes, the result cell updates to show the latest content.
• Next actions: You can continue saving, copying, or extending the formula.

Tips While Using

• Common mistakes: If the reference range is incorrect, the updated result will also reflect the wrong range.