The SQRT function in Google Sheets is a powerful mathematical tool designed to calculate the square root of a given positive number. This function is particularly useful in various fields such as finance, engineering, and statistics, allowing users to easily derive square root values for applications such as calculating standard deviations or Gaussian distributions.

Syntax

SQRT(number)

• number: A positive numeric value or a reference to a cell containing a positive number, whose square root is to be calculated.

Example #1

=SQRT(16)

This function calculates the square root of 16, resulting in 4. For example, the output would be 4, as 4 multiplied by itself equals 16.

Example #2

=SQRT(A1)

If cell A1 contains the value 25, this function will return the square root of 25, which is 5. Thus, the result displayed will be 5.

Example #3

=SQRT(0)

This call will return 0 since the square root of zero is zero, resulting in the output of 0.

Error handling

• NUM! This error occurs when the input value is negative, as square roots of negative numbers are not defined in the realm of real numbers.
• VALUE! This error arises when the input is not a numeric value, such as text or an empty cell, that cannot be evaluated for a square root.

Conclusion

In summary, the SQRT function is an essential tool in Google Sheets for users needing to compute square roots quickly and accurately. Its simple syntax allows for seamless integration into more complex formulas, streamlining mathematical operations in various applications.