How to Use Excel OR Function

We can use Excel OR function to simultaneously test multiple logical conditions. For each argument, the OR function will give TRUE or FALSE. This article will step through the use of the OR function.

Figure 1: Final result

Syntax of the formula

=OR(logical1, [logical2]….)

The parameters

Logical1- refers to first condition or logical value to evaluate

Logical2- refers to second condition or logical value to evaluate. It is optional.

Explanation

We will get either of two results: If the argument is true and the condition met, the OR function will return TRUE. However, on the other hand, if the condition is not met, then the OR function will return FALSE.

This function can be used to test multiple conditions, up to 255 at a time.

Using OR to extend functionality of IF function

We can also use the OR function to extend the functionality of the IF function. To better understand this, consider the example below:

Figure 2: Extending functionality of IF function

Array form of the OR function

One can test all values in a given range against one condition by using the array form of the OR function. The test will return either TRUE if any cell in the given range certifies the condition given.

e.g.

={OR(B2:BC20>100}

Notes

The OR function will ignore any empty cell or cells with text values.

Again, if the range selected does not contain any logical values, the OR function will return #Value.

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