Excel can calculate an arithmetic average with the AVERAGE function. If your numbers are in cells B2 through B10, the formula =AVERAGE(B2:B10) returns their mean.
How to Calculate an Average in Excel
- Select an empty cell where you want the result.
- Type =AVERAGE(B2:B10), replacing the range with the cells containing your values.
- Press Enter.
Average Nonadjacent Cells
You can supply separate references, such as =AVERAGE(B2,B5,B8). Excel ignores empty cells in the referenced arguments, but zero values are included in the calculation.
Average Only Values That Meet a Condition
Use AVERAGEIF when values should be averaged only when they meet one condition, or AVERAGEIFS for multiple criteria. This is different from averaging an entire range and can be useful for categories, dates, or thresholds.
Why an Average Can Be Misleading
The arithmetic mean can be strongly affected by unusually high or low values. For some data sets, the median or a grouped analysis can describe the typical value better. Check the underlying numbers rather than relying on one summary statistic alone.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
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