The ABS function with example in Excel

The ABS function in Excel is used to return the absolute value of a number. The absolute value of a number is its non-negative value, regardless of its sign.

Syntax

scss
ABS(number)

• number: The number for which you want the absolute value. This can be a cell reference, a number, or an expression that results in a number.

Example

Suppose you have a list of numbers in column A, and you want to get their absolute values in column B.

1. Enter the Numbers:

   • In cell A1, enter -10.
   • In cell A2, enter 15.
   • In cell A3, enter -25.
   • In cell A4, enter 30.

2. Use the ABS Function:

   • In cell B1, enter the formula:

     scss
     =ABS(A1)
     

   • Drag the fill handle from B1 down to B4 to apply the formula to the other cells in column B.

Results

A	B
-10	10
15	15
-25	25
30	30

Explanation

• =ABS(A1) returns 10 because the absolute value of -10 is 10.
• =ABS(A2) returns 15 because the absolute value of 15 is 15.
• =ABS(A3) returns 25 because the absolute value of -25 is 25.
• =ABS(A4) returns 30 because the absolute value of 30 is 30.

Additional Example with Formulas

Consider you have a formula that results in a negative value and you want to get its absolute value.

1. Enter the Formula:

   • In cell C1, enter:

     =A1 - A2
     

2. Use the ABS Function:

   • In cell D1, enter:

     scss
     =ABS(C1)
     

Explanation

• If A1 is -10 and A2 is 15, the formula =A1 - A2 in cell C1 results in -25.
• The formula =ABS(C1) in cell D1 returns 25, the absolute value of -25.

This way, the ABS function helps to ensure that you are working with non-negative numbers, regardless of the sign of the original values.