In this tutorial, we will explore the STDEVPA function in Google Sheets and learn how to calculate population standard deviation.
Understanding Standard Deviation
Before we dive into the function, let’s quickly refresh our knowledge about standard deviation. There are two types of standard deviations: population standard deviation and sample standard deviation. The STDEVPA function specifically helps us calculate the population standard deviation.
Syntax and Arguments
The syntax of the STDEVPA function is as follows:
STDEVPA(value1, [value2, ...])The function takes one or more values or arrays as arguments. The value1 is the first value or array of the population, and value2 (optional) represents additional values or arrays to include in the population.
Features of the STDEVPA Function
When using the STDEVPA function with arrays or array/range references, the following features apply:
- Text values in the array are evaluated as 0 (zero).
- Boolean TRUE evaluates as 1, while FALSE evaluates as 0 (zero).
- Empty cells are ignored.
- Error values in the array or array reference cause errors in the STDEVPA formula output.
To grasp these features better, let’s explore some formula examples.
Formula Examples
Here are ten formula examples that demonstrate how the STDEVPA function evaluates texts, Boolean values, and blank cells within an array or array reference:
=STDEVPA(A2:A11)In this example, we calculate the population standard deviation for the range A2:A11. You can apply this formula to other columns by dragging the fill handle.
What happens when you enter values directly within the STDEVPA formula?
- If any of the entered values are text, the function returns a #VALUE! error.
- Text representations of numbers are counted.
- Boolean TRUE evaluates as 1, while FALSE evaluates as 0 (zero).
- Error values in the array cause errors.
Conclusion
The STDEVPA function in Google Sheets is a powerful tool for calculating population standard deviation. It evaluates text strings as 0 (zero) and handles Boolean values and empty cells effectively.
Remember, if you don’t need to consider Boolean values and text strings in your calculations, you can use the STDEVP function instead. However, if you want to include them, the STDEVPA function is the way to go.
To learn more about mean and standard deviation, check out our article on Mean and Standard Deviation Straight Lines on a Column Chart.
That’s all for now! Enjoy exploring the wonders of the STDEVPA function in Google Sheets.
