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How to calculate month-over-month change in Excel and Google Sheets
Topic:PercentagesExcel & Google Sheets
=IF(B2="", "", (B2-A2)/A2)✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| January | February |
| 100 | 120 |
| 150 | 140 |
| 200 |
=IF(B2="", "", (B2-A2)/A2)→0.2
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Step by step
- 1Enter your monthly data into two adjacent columns, e.g., January in column A and February in column B.
- 2In the cell next to your February data (C2), enter the formula to calculate the month-over-month change.
- 3Copy the formula down to apply it to other months.
Tips
- Ensure your data is numeric to avoid errors in calculations.
- Format the result as a percentage for easier interpretation.
- Check for zero values in the previous period to avoid division by zero errors.
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Frequently asked
What if my data spans multiple years?
You can still use the same formula, but ensure your data is organized chronologically.
How do I handle missing data?
Use the IF function to return an empty string or a custom message when data is missing.
Can I use this formula for quarterly or yearly changes?
Yes, adjust the cell references to reflect the time period you're analyzing.
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