An Overview of ABS Function | Microsoft Excel
The ABS function is one of the math and trigonometry functions in Microsoft Excel. It can be used as a standalone function as well as in collaboration with the other functions. This article will give you an overview of the ABS function in Excel.
Objectives
The ABS function removes the sign from a number. It calculates the absolute value of any given number.
Syntax
=ABS(number)
Arguments
- number: It refers to the number you want to remove its sign from.
Output
A positive numerical value.
Examples of ABS Function
Suppose, you have the number –3.4 in cell A2; which is a negative number. But you want to convert the negative number into a positive number. Well, for this purpose you can use the ABS function. Because it can remove any sign before a number. Thus, it produces only positive numbers. . Now, use the formula:
=ABS(A2)
The output will be 3.4.
Here are some examples of the usage of the ABS function.
Usage Guide of ABS Function
Step_1: Start with inserting an equal sign (=) in a blank cell.
Step_2: Then type ABS.
Step_3: Type open parenthesis “(“.
As you type the open parenthesis, Excel shows the syntax of the ABS function.
Step_4: Insert a number to remove its sign.
You can directly insert a number or a cell address that contains a number.
Here, I have inserted cell A2 which contains a negative number, -45.45927.
Step_5: After that insert a closing parenthesis “)”.
Step_6: Finally press the ENTER button.
Final Result
The ABS function converts -45.45927 to 45.45927. It removes the minus sign “-” from the front side of the number. Thus, the output becomes 45.45927. As the ABS function removes the sign from a number, the output is always a positive number.
Availability
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Remarks
- The ABS function shows #VALUE! error in the case of the non-numeric values.
Conclusion
The ABS function is one of the math and trigonometry functions in Excel. If you have any questions regarding the ABS function, please comment below. Thanks!
