MEDIAN
The MEDIAN function returns the median value in a set of numbers. It helps find the middle data point in a dataset. This function is useful for statistical analysis and data processing tasks.
Syntax 🔗
=MEDIAN(number1, [number2], [number3], ...)
number1 | The first number or range of numbers. |
[number2] | [number3], ..., Optional additional numbers or ranges to include in the calculation of the median. |
About MEDIAN 🔗
Use the MEDIAN function in Excel to find the middle value in a collection of numeric values. This function helps you determine the median, which is useful in statistical analysis, financial modeling, and scenarios where identifying the central value is important for decision-making or interpreting data. Whether you're working with sales figures, exam scores, or any numeric dataset, the MEDIAN function provides a simple way to find the central value, aiding in your analysis and understanding of the data.
Examples 🔗
If you have a list of exam scores: 85, 90, 75, 88, 92, and you want to find the median score, use the MEDIAN formula: =MEDIAN(85, 90, 75, 88, 92). This returns 88 as the median score.
For a dataset of monthly sales figures: $4500, $6000, $4800, $5500, $5100, $5900, to calculate the median sales figure using the MEDIAN function, enter the formula: =MEDIAN(4500, 6000, 4800, 5500, 5100, 5900). This results in a median value of $5250.
Notes 🔗
Ensure that the inputs to the MEDIAN function are valid numeric values or references to cells with numbers. The function identifies the median of the given set of numbers. For an even number of values, the median is the average of the two middle values.
Questions 🔗
For an odd number of values, the MEDIAN function returns the middle value in the dataset. In the case of an even number of values, it calculates the median by averaging the two middle values.
Can the MEDIAN function handle non-numeric values in the dataset?No, the MEDIAN function works only with numeric values. If the dataset includes non-numeric values, Excel will return an error.
Is it necessary to input values in a specific order for the MEDIAN function?No, the order in which you input the values does not affect the outcome of the MEDIAN function. It calculates the median based on the values provided, not their sequence.