Summary

TYPE returns a numeric code that tells you the data type of a value. Instead of giving you TRUE or FALSE for one specific test, it gives you a broader classification in one result.

Microsoft documents these core codes: 1 for number, 2 for text, 4 for logical value, 16 for error, 64 for array, and 128 for compound data. That makes TYPE useful when a formula can receive different kinds of input and you need to react differently to each one.

Syntax

=TYPE(value)

You can use a direct value, a formula result, or a cell reference.

Arguments

• value - [required] The value you want to classify.

TYPE vs Individual IS Functions

Using TYPE

This function is helpful when one formula can receive mixed input. Instead of stacking several IS... functions, you can call TYPE once and switch behavior based on the returned code.

One nuance matters here. A blank cell reference returns 1, which is the same code used for numbers. That can surprise people if they expect blanks to get their own separate code.

Example 1 - Return the code for a number

A normal number returns code 1.

=TYPE(A1)

Example 2 - Check a blank cell reference

A blank cell reference still returns 1 here.

=TYPE(B2)

Example 3 - Check an error value

Error values return code 16.

=TYPE(D1)

Example 4 - Check an array constant

Arrays return code 64.

=TYPE({1,2,3})

Conclusion Recap

• Main job: TYPE classifies a value with a numeric code.
• Core codes: 1 number, 2 text, 4 logical, 16 error, 64 array, 128 compound.
• Important nuance: A blank cell reference returns 1 here.
• Best use: When one formula needs to react to multiple possible input types.