MIN in Excel: Find Lowest Number in a Data Range

Returns the smallest value in a set of values.

Generated Formula
=MIN(A1:A100)

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How to Find Minimum Values with MIN in Excel

The MIN function returns the smallest number in a set of provided values.

Syntax

=MIN(number1, [number2], ...)

Common Errors & Fixes

  • MIN returns 0 when expecting a positive minimum

    Causes:
    • The range includes zeros which are technically the minimum.
    • Blank cells in the range are counted as 0.
    Fixes:
    • Use MINIFS or array formulas to exclude 0.
    • Use =MINIFS(range, range, ">0") in supported Excel versions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between MIN and MINA?

MIN ignores text and logical values. MINA evaluates TRUE as 1 and FALSE as 0, which may give unexpected results.

How do I find the smallest value excluding zeros?

Use an array formula: =MIN(IF(A1:A100>0, A1:A100)), or MINIFS in Excel 2019+ if you have a criteria range.

Does MIN work in Google Sheets?

Yes, MIN works identically in Google Sheets with the same syntax.

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