The SMALL function in Google Sheets is a powerful tool that allows users to retrieve the nth smallest value from a specified data set. This function is particularly useful for analyzing data sets where ranking or comparison of values is necessary, enabling data-driven decision-making.

Syntax

SMALL(data, n)

• data: A range or array containing numeric values from which you want to find the nth smallest.
• n: A positive integer representing the position of the smallest value you want to return (1 for the smallest, 2 for the second smallest, etc.).

Example #1

=SMALL(A1:A10, 1)

This function retrieves the smallest value from the range A1 to A10. For example, if the values are {5, 3, 8, 1, 4}, the result will be 1.

Example #2

=SMALL(B1:B10, 3)

This function returns the third smallest value in the range B1 to B10. If the values are {10, 20, 30, 5, 25}, the result will be 20.

Example #3

=SMALL(C1:C5, 2)

This function finds the second smallest value in the range C1 to C5. For instance, if the values are {4, 2, 7, 1, 6}, the result will be 2.

Error handling

• NUM! – This error occurs if the specified value of n is less than 1 or greater than the count of values in the data range.
• REF! – This error shows when the data range provided is invalid or has been deleted.
• VALUE! – This error arises if the n parameter is not a valid number (e.g., text instead of an integer).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the SMALL function is an essential part of data analysis in Google Sheets, allowing users to effectively identify the smallest values within data ranges. By understanding how to use this function and handle potential errors, users can harness its full potential for informed decision-making based on quantitative analysis.