Information
ISERR Function in Excel
Returns TRUE if the value is any error except #N/A, otherwise returns FALSE.
Syntax
- =ISERR(value)
Arguments
- value (required): The value to check for errors (excluding #N/A)
Examples
- =ISERR(#VALUE!) - Check if #VALUE! is an error (not #N/A) - Result: TRUE
- =ISERR(#N/A) - Check #N/A error - Result: FALSE
- =ISERR(A1/0) - Check division by zero - Result: TRUE
Defensive formulas with ISERR
- Use IS* functions inside IF to branch on blank, error, text, or number cells.
- Prefer [IFERROR](/functions/iferror/) when you only need a fallback display value.
- Error hub: [Fix formula errors](/guides/fix-excel-formula-errors/).
Common errors
- Confusing ISERR with ISERROR - ISERR excludes #N/A
Use cases
- Error handling excluding #N/A
- Data validation
- Formula debugging
Frequently asked questions
- What is the ISERR function in Excel? ISERR returns TRUE if the value is any error except #N/A, otherwise returns FALSE. The syntax is =ISERR(value). Typical use cases include error handling excluding #N/A, data validation, formula debugging.
- How do I use the ISERR function? To use ISERR, type =ISERR( in a cell and provide the required arguments. Excel will show you the syntax and parameter hints as you type. Make sure to close the parentheses and press Enter to execute the function.
- Why is ISERR not working in my Excel? Common issues with ISERR include Confusing ISERR with ISERROR - ISERR excludes #N/A. Start by checking the syntax =ISERR(value), then verify each referenced cell or range.
Editorial review
- Reviewed by Excel.Directory Editorial Team. Updated May 2026.