The `VAR.P` function in Excel is used to calculate the variance of an entire population. Variance measures how far a set of numbers are spread out from their average value. The `.P` in `VAR.P` stands for “population,” and it’s used when you have data for the entire population, rather than just a sample of it.
Here’s how you can use the `VAR.P` function in Excel:
Syntax:
VAR.P(number1, [number2], ...)
- number1, number2, …: These are the numbers, cell references, or ranges that you want to calculate the variance for. You must provide at least one value. You can provide up to 254 additional values.
Steps to Use `VAR.P`:
- Open Excel: Start by opening Microsoft Excel on your computer.
- Enter Your Data: If you haven’t already, input your data into a worksheet. For example, you could input your data into cells A1 through A10.
- Select an Empty Cell: Click on an empty cell where you want to display the result of the `VAR.P` function.
- Enter the Formula: Type `=VAR.P(` in the cell, and then either:
- Directly enter your numbers separated by commas (e.g., `=VAR.P(4, 9, 11, 12, 17)`), or
- Enter the range of cells that contain your data (e.g., `=VAR.P(A1:A10)`).
- Complete the Formula: Press `Enter` to complete the formula and see the variance result in the selected cell.
Example:
Suppose you have the numbers 5, 10, 15, and 20 in cells A1 through A4. To calculate the variance of this population, you would:
- Click on an empty cell (e.g., B1).
- Type the formula: `=VAR.P(A1:A4)`.
- Press `Enter`, and Excel will calculate the variance of the numbers 5, 10, 15, and 20, displaying the result in cell B1.
Notes:
- Population vs. Sample: Use `VAR.P` when you have the complete data set for the entire population. If you only have a sample of the data, use `VAR.S` instead.
- Compatibility: `VAR.P` is available in Excel 2010 and later versions. For earlier versions, you might need to use `VARP`, which serves the same purpose.
By following these steps, you can effectively use the `VAR.P` function to calculate the variance of a population in Excel.
Unlock Your Potential
Excel
Access
Power BI
