Explanation

The ISREF function returns TRUE for a valid worksheet reference and FALSE is not.

INDIRECT then tries to evaluate the text as a reference.

When INDIRECT succeeds, the reference is passed into ISREF which returns TRUE.

Excel formula: Dynamic worksheet reference

When INDIRECT can’t create a reference, it throws a #REF error, and ISREF returns FALSE.

you might use the ISREF function to check for a reference in a formula.

INDIRECT Function

The Excel INDIRECT function returns a valid cell reference from a given text string.

Excel formula: Get sheet name only

INDIRECT is useful when you want to assemble a text value that can be used as a valid reference.

Excel ISREF function

Excel INDIRECT function