Description
Use this function to calculate the arithmetic mean of a set of numbers. Supported in Chains. Can be used with CHILDREFS.
AVERAGE is useful for finding the central value of a range of numbers.
Syntax
AVERAGE(number_1, […, number_254])
Inputs
This function accepts the following arguments:
| Name | Required | Description | Valid input |
|---|---|---|---|
number_1 |
Yes | The first number, cell reference, or range for which you want to calculate the average. | A number, a reference to a cell or cell range containing numbers, or a formula which results in any of these. |
number_n |
No | Additional numbers, cell references, or ranges to calculate the average. | A number, a reference to a cell or cell range containing numbers, or a formula which results in any of these. |
Example
Sample data
A |
B |
|
|---|---|---|
1 |
10 |
20 |
2 |
5 |
15 |
3 |
30 |
25 |
4 |
7 |
12 |
Sample formulas
| Use case | Formula | Explanation and Result |
|---|---|---|
| Find the average of a single column of numbers. | =AVERAGE(A1:A4) |
Averages the four values in column A. Result: 13 |
| Find the average across a rectangular range spanning multiple columns. | =AVERAGE(A1:B4) |
Averages all eight values in columns A and B. Result: 15.5 |
| Find the average of two specific cells. | =AVERAGE(A2, B2) |
Averages A2 (5) and B2 (15). Result: 10 |
| Find the average among numbers typed directly into the formula. | =AVERAGE(10, 20, 5, 15) |
Averages four literal values instead of pulling from a range. Result: 12.5 |
Notes
- AVERAGE ignores empty cells, logical values, and text.
- If the range contains no numbers, AVERAGE returns a #DIV/0! error.
Tips
- You can use AVERAGE with IF to calculate the average based on a condition.
- AVERAGE can be used with other functions to calculate the average based on a condition.
- Use conditional formatting to highlight the average value in a range.