The Google Sheets function VAR.S is designed to calculate the sample variance of a dataset, providing a measure of how much the values in the dataset deviate from the mean. This function is particularly useful in statistical analysis, enabling users to understand the dispersion of their data points effectively.

Syntax

VAR.S(value1, [value2, ...])

• value1: The initial data point or range of data points to include in the variance calculation.
• value2: (optional) Additional data points or ranges to be included.

Example #1

VAR.S(A1:A10)

This function calculates the sample variance of the data in cells A1 through A10. For example, if the values are 2, 3, 7, 8, 10, the result would be approximately 7.5.

Example #2

VAR.S(5, 10, 15)

This calculates the sample variance for the numbers 5, 10, and 15. The resulting variance would be 25, indicating the data points are relatively dispersed from the mean.

Example #3

VAR.S(A1, A2, A3, B1:B5)

Here, the function computes the sample variance for cell A1, A2, A3, and the range B1 through B5. If the values in these cells were 1, 2, 3, and 4, 5, 6, 7, respectively, the output might be 6.25.

Error handling

• DIV/0!: Occurs when there are fewer than two numeric values provided to calculate the variance.
• VALUE!: This error happens if the function receives non-numeric values in any of the referenced cells.
• N/A: This may arise if the function is supplied with an argument that does not resolve to a numerical value, affecting the calculation.

Conclusion

In summary, the VAR.S function in Google Sheets is a valuable tool for statistical analysis, allowing users to assess the variance of a sample dataset effectively. By understanding how to utilize this function and handle potential errors, users can enhance their data analysis skills within Google Sheets.