Math function
Excel MIN function
MIN returns the smallest number from the cells you give it. Use it to find the cheapest quote, the lowest score, or the earliest date in a list. Text and empty cells are ignored.
=MIN(number1, [number2], ...)Arguments
number1- The first number, cell or range to check.
number2- Optional. More numbers, cells or ranges, up to 255.
MIN examples
Every result below was calculated from this sample sheet by the same spreadsheet engine the Cellwise app uses.
| A | B | C | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Supplier | Quote | Delivery days |
| 2 | Northwind | 1840 | 5 |
| 3 | Acme Supply | 1725 | 9 |
| 4 | BrightParts | 1990 | 3 |
| 5 | Coastal Co | 1760 | TBC |
| 6 | Delta Depot | 1815 | 7 |
Result: 1725
The lowest quote in the list.
Result: 3
The fastest delivery time. "TBC" is text, so MIN skips it.
Result: 1700
Add a plain number to compare against. 1700 is lower than every quote, so it wins.
Result: Acme Supply
Combine with INDEX and MATCH to return the supplier with the lowest quote.
How to use MIN
- Click an empty cell.
- Type =MIN(
- Select the range to check.
- Close the bracket and press Enter.
Common MIN mistakes
Getting 0 when you expected a real minimum
A cell with 0 in it counts as a number. Blanks are skipped, but zeros are not. Use MINIFS or a FILTER to exclude them.
Numbers stored as text
MIN ignores text in a range, so a value stored as text is never considered. Convert it to a real number.
Wanting the second smallest
MIN only returns the very smallest. Use SMALL(range,2) for the second, SMALL(range,3) for the third.
MIN FAQ
Why does MIN return 0 in Excel?
Either there is a real 0 in the range, or the range has no numbers at all. When MIN finds no numbers it returns 0 rather than an error.
How do I find the minimum value with a condition in Excel?
Use MINIFS, for example =MINIFS(B2:B10,A2:A10,"East"). In older versions use an array formula with MIN and IF.
Does MIN ignore blank cells?
Yes. Empty cells, text and TRUE/FALSE values inside a range are all ignored.
Practice MIN in these lessons
Guides that use MIN
Related functions
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