Information

NA Function in Excel

Returns the error value #N/A (value not available).

Syntax

  • =NA()

Examples

  • =NA() - Return #N/A error - Result: #N/A

Defensive formulas with NA

  • 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

  • Used intentionally to mark missing data

Use cases

  • Mark missing data
  • Placeholder values
  • Chart gaps

Frequently asked questions

  • What is NA() used for in Excel? NA() intentionally creates a #N/A error to mark missing or unavailable data. Unlike leaving cells blank, #N/A clearly indicates 'no data' and is handled specially by charts (creates gaps) and functions like ISNA and IFNA.
  • How do I create gaps in Excel charts? Use =NA() for data points you want to skip. Charts treat #N/A as gaps in the line/series rather than zero. This is cleaner than using blank cells, which some chart types connect through.
  • What is the difference between NA() and leaving a cell blank? NA() explicitly marks missing data and returns #N/A error. Blank cells may be treated as 0 or ignored depending on context. NA() is clearer for data analysis and triggers ISNA() to return TRUE.

Editorial review

  • Reviewed by Excel.Directory Editorial Team. Updated May 2026.