The MIN formula with example in Excel

The MIN function in Excel is used to find the smallest number in a set of values. This function can be helpful when you need to determine the lowest value in a range of numbers, such as the minimum sales figure, the lowest score, or the smallest value in a dataset.

Syntax

MIN(number1, [number2], ...)

• number1, number2, ...: These are the numbers or ranges of numbers from which you want to find the minimum value. You can include individual numbers, cell references, or ranges.

Example

Suppose you have a list of temperatures recorded over a week, and you want to find the minimum temperature for that week.

Data

A
68
70
75
72
69
71
73

You want to find the lowest temperature from this list.

Steps

1. Enter the temperatures in column A (A1).

2. Use the MIN function to find the minimum temperature. In cell B1, enter the following formula:

   =MIN(A1:A7)
   

3. Press Enter.

Result

The formula returns 68, indicating that the lowest temperature in the list is 68.

Explanation of the Formula

• A1:A7 is the range containing the temperatures.

Another Example with Multiple Ranges

Suppose you have temperatures recorded over two weeks, and you want to find the minimum temperature across both weeks.

Data

Week 1	Week 2
68	70
70	71
75	69
72	73
69	74

You want to find the lowest temperature from both weeks.

Steps

1. Enter the temperatures for Week 1 in column A (A1) and Week 2 in column B (B1).

2. Use the MIN function to find the minimum temperature across both weeks. In cell C1, enter the following formula:

   =MIN(A1:A5, B1:B5)
   

3. Press Enter.

Result

The formula returns 68, indicating that the lowest temperature across both weeks is 68.

Explanation of the Formula

• A1:A5 and B1:B5 are the ranges containing the temperatures for Week 1 and Week 2, respectively.

By using the MIN function, you can quickly determine the smallest value in a dataset, whether it consists of a single range or multiple ranges of numbers. This is particularly useful for data analysis, reporting, and making informed decisions.