These FAQs focus on 4 common XIRR issues, including syntax entry, argument matching, unexpected results, and recalculation, plus a 4-term glossary for quick reference.
FAQ
What should I do if the XIRR function returns an error after I enter it?
- Check whether the formula starts with
=. - Check whether the parentheses are paired correctly and the separators are valid.
- Make sure the amount range and date range contain the same number of items.
- If needed, re-enter
=XIRR(and fill in the arguments again by following the hint.
Why does XIRR return an incorrect result or no numeric value?
- Check whether the cash flow series includes at least one outflow and one inflow.
- Check whether the dates are valid date values instead of plain text.
- Confirm that the referenced rows and columns are correct and complete.
- If needed, add the optional guess argument and calculate again.
How can I view the argument hint for XIRR?
- Select the target cell.
- Type
=XIRR(. - Look for the function hint near the formula entry area.
- Enter the amount, date, and optional guess arguments in order.
Why did the result not change as expected after I edited the data?
- Check whether the new data is included in the referenced range.
- Make sure you edited the original amount or date cells used by the formula.
- Select the result cell again and review whether the formula range needs to be expanded.
- Correct the formula and confirm whether the result updates.
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| XIRR | A financial function used to calculate the internal rate of return for irregular cash flows. |
| Cash flow | A record of money flowing in and out at different points in time. |
| Date range | The cell range that contains dates corresponding to each cash flow amount. |
| Guess | The optional XIRR argument used as an initial estimate close to the expected result. |