Method 1. How to Compare Columns in Excel for Matches Using the EQUAL TO Operator

This is a simple way to confirm if columns within your Excel worksheet contain the same data. However, this method is not case-sensitive and only focuses on whether the text or number within the cells is the same.

Step 1: Ensure there is a dedicated column to display the result. In this case, we use the Match Result column to compare Columns 1 and 2.

Step 2: Place your cursor within a cell beside the cell you want to compare.

Step 3: Type = and select the first cell you want to compare. It would be best if you had something similar to the text below:

=B3

Step 2: Type =EXACT( into the cell and press the Tab key.

Step 2: Type =IF( into the cell and press the Tab key.

Step 3: Select the first cell you would like to compare. You should have something similar to the text below:

=IF(B3

Step 4: Type = after selecting the first cell, select the second cell for comparison. You should have something similar to the text below:

=IF(B3=C3

Step 5: Enter the results you want Excel to return if the selected cells match. This is called the value if true and the value if false. You should have something similar to the text below:

=IF(B3=C3, “True”, “False”)

Step 6: Press the Enter key on your keyboard for Excel to return a TRUE or FALSE value.

Step 7: Place your cursor at the bottom right corner of the cell and drag the formula down to compare matches for other cells.