Note: STDEV.S replaces the older STDEV function, but has identical behavior. Although STDEV still exists for backwards compatibility, Microsoft recommends that people use the newer STDEV.S function instead.
Standard Deviation functions in Excel
The table below summarizes the standard deviation functions provided by Excel. Notes:
STDEV.S calculates standard deviation using the “n-1” method. STDEV.S assumes data is a sample only. When data represents an entire population, use the STDEV.P function. Numbers are supplied as arguments. They can be supplied as actual numbers, ranges, arrays, or references that contain numbers. STDEV.S ignores empty cells, logical values, and text that appears in supplied reference(s). STDEV.S will evaluate text and logical values hardcoded as function arguments. To evaluate logical values and/or numbers as text in a reference, see the STDEVA function.
Dave Bruns
Hi - I’m Dave Bruns, and I run Exceljet with my wife, Lisa. Our goal is to help you work faster in Excel. We create short videos, and clear examples of formulas, functions, pivot tables, conditional formatting, and charts.
