How to use INFO function in Excel?

The INFO function in Excel is used to retrieve information about the operating environment in which Excel is running. It can return details such as the current operating system, Excel version, number of active worksheets, and more. Here’s how you can use the INFO function:

Syntax

INFO(type_text)

type_text: This is a text string that specifies the type of information you want to retrieve. It is required and must be one of the following values:

“directory”: Returns the current directory or folder path.
“numfile”: Returns the number of active worksheets in the current workbook.
“origin”: Returns the reference style currently in use (only applicable for Lotus 1-2-3).
“osversion”: Returns the current operating system version.
“recalc”: Returns the recalculation mode (e.g., Automatic or Manual).
“release”: Returns the version of Excel.
“system”: Returns the name of the operating system (e.g., Windows or macOS).

Examples

   =INFO("directory")

Get the current directory:

This will return the path of the directory where the currently open workbook is located.

   =INFO("numfile")

Get the number of active worksheets:

This returns the count of active worksheets in the current open workbook.

   =INFO("osversion")

Get the operating system version:

This will return a string indicating the version of the operating system.

   =INFO("release")

Get the Excel version:

This provides a string with the release version of Excel you are using.

Remarks

The INFO function is volatile, which means it will recalculate automatically every time the worksheet is recalculated, regardless of any changes to calculation dependencies.
Keep in mind that certain “type_text” arguments might not be supported in all operating systems or versions of Excel.

This function is useful for debug purposes and when building complex spreadsheets that require knowledge of the environment or Excel version to function accurately.

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