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How to calculate variance between two numbers in Excel and Google Sheets
Excel & Google Sheets
=VAR.S(A2:B2)✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| Number1 | Number2 |
| 5 | 10 |
| 15 | 20 |
| 25 | 30 |
=VAR.S(A2:B2)→12.5
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Step by step
- 1Enter your two numbers in separate cells, e.g., A2 and B2.
- 2In another cell, enter the formula =VAR.S(A2:B2) for Excel or Google Sheets.
- 3Press Enter to see the variance calculated.
Tips
- Ensure your data range includes all relevant numbers for accurate variance calculation.
- VAR.S calculates sample variance, while VAR.P calculates population variance. Choose based on your data set type.
- Check for any text or empty cells in your range as they can cause errors.
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Frequently asked
What is the difference between VAR.S and VAR.P?
VAR.S calculates sample variance, assuming your data represents a sample of a larger population. VAR.P calculates population variance, assuming your data represents the entire population.
Can I use this formula for more than two numbers?
Yes, you can include more numbers in the range, e.g., A2:A10, to calculate the variance for a larger dataset.
What if my data includes text or errors?
Text and error values will cause the formula to return an error. Ensure your range contains only numerical data.