How to Use the STDEV Function in Excel
Welcome to the comprehensive guide on using the STDEV function in Excel and Google Sheets. This function calculates the standard deviation from a sample of data within a specified range, providing a quantitative measure of the variation or dispersion among data values.
Syntax:
The STDEV function’s syntax is consistent across both Excel and Google Sheets:
=STDEV(number1, [number2], ...)number1,number2, etc.: These are the data points of the sample for which the standard deviation is to be calculated. The first argument is required, while subsequent ones are optional.
Examples:
Below, we explore how to effectively use the STDEV function in both Excel and Google Sheets through practical examples:
Example 1 – Excel:
Consider the following sample data in cells A1 to A5:
| Data |
|---|
| 5 |
| 7 |
| 3 |
| 10 |
| 6 |
In Excel, to calculate the standard deviation of this sample, use the formula:
=STDEV(A1:A5)This formula returns the standard deviation of the listed values.
Example 2 – Google Sheets:
For the same data set, calculate the standard deviation in Google Sheets using:
=STDEV(A1:A5)Input this formula into any empty cell to obtain the standard deviation of the sample.
Applications:
The STDEV function is widely utilized in various fields for statistical analysis and forecasting. Common applications include:
- Quality control, to monitor and analyze variations in product quality.
- Financial analysis, to assess investment risks and returns.
- Scientific research, for analyzing data and testing hypotheses.
Using the STDEV function enables professionals to accurately measure data variability, facilitating informed decision-making based on statistical insights.
More information: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/stdev-function-51fecaaa-231e-4bbb-9230-33650a72c9b0