Standard deviation is a measure of how much variance there is in a set of numbers compared to the average (mean) of the numbers. The STDEVA function is meant to estimate standard deviation in a sample. If data represents an entire population, use the STDEVPA function. In the example shown, the formula in E5 is:
Standard Deviation functions in Excel
The table below summarizes the standard deviation functions provided by Excel.
Notes
Only use STDEVA when you need to evaluate logicals or text in the standard deviation calculation. STDEVA calculates standard deviation using the “n-1” method. STDEVA assumes data is a sample. If data representations an entire population, use STDEVP or STDEV.P. Values are supplied as arguments. They can be supplied as actual numbers, ranges, arrays, or references that contain numbers. STDEVA evaluates logical values and/or numbers in supplied references. To ignore these values use STDEV or STDEV.S
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.
