Here’s how to find the arithmetic mean using the AVERAGE function in Excel.
AVERAGE Function Syntax and Arguments
A function’s syntax refers to the layout of the function and includes the function name, brackets, comma separators, and arguments. The syntax of the AVERAGE function is:
Number1 (required) is the data from which you want the function to find the average. Number2 to Number 255 (optional) is the additional data you want to include in the average calculation. The maximum number of entries allowed is 255.
Options for entering the function and its arguments include:
Typing the complete function into a worksheet cell.Inputting the function and arguments using the Function dialog box.Entering the function and arguments using the Excel Average Function shortcut.
Excel AVERAGE Function Example
Excel has a shortcut to enter the AVERAGE function, sometimes referred to as AutoAverage due to its association with the AutoSum feature, which is located on the Home tab of the ribbon. The steps below cover how to enter the AVERAGE function, as shown in row four of the example image above, using the shortcut method.
Best Practices for Using the AVERAGE Function
Follow these guidelines when entering data for the AVERAGE function:
You can add individual cells as arguments, rather than a continuous range. When using cells as arguments, separate cell references with a comma. Excel ignores blank cells, text entries, and cells containing Boolean values (TRUE or FALSE). If you make changes to the data in the selected cells after entering the function, it automatically recalculates the result to reflect the change.
How to AutoAverage Select Ranges
When using the AutoAverage feature, keep these tips in mind:
The default range includes only cells containing numbers. The AVERAGE function should be entered at the bottom of a column of data or the right end of a row of data. It looks first for the number data above and then to the left. Since the AVERAGE function guesses at the range it selects for the Number argument, you should check that it’s accurate before pressing the Enter key on the keyboard to complete the function.
Blank Cells vs. Zero Cells
When it comes to finding average values in Excel, there’s a difference between blank or empty cells and those containing a zero value. Blank cells are ignored by the AVERAGE function, which can be handy since it makes finding the average for non-contiguous cells of data easy.
Turn Zero Cells Off and On
Excel displays a zero in cells with a zero value by default, such as the result of calculations. If this option is off, such cells are left blank but are included in average calculations.
