# Google Sheets MIN Function: Syntax, Examples & Tips - URL: https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/min-function - Author: Better Analyst Formula Bot is now Better Analyst—same account, more powerful analysis.Formula Bot is now Better Analyst—same account and workflows, with more powerful analysis, dashboards, and automation. [Learn what changed](https://betteranalyst.com/formula-bot-is-now-better-analyst) The MIN function returns the smallest value from a set of numbers or a range of cells in Google Sheets. ``` MIN(value1, [value2, ...]) ``` Generate FormulaExplain Formula One free generation or explanation per browser, shared across Excel and Google Sheets. Account usage limits apply afterward. Describe the MIN you need in plain EnglishGenerate Formula ## Parameters **`value1`**:\ The first number or cell reference that you want to evaluate for the minimum value. **`value2`**:\ Additional numbers or cell references that you want to evaluate for the minimum value. This parameter is optional and you can include multiple additional values. ## What is a MIN Formula? The *MIN* function in Google Sheets is a simple yet effective tool used to find the smallest number in a range of cells. It is particularly useful when you need to analyze data sets and identify the minimum value, whether it's for financial records, test scores, or any numerical data. In simpler terms, the MIN function allows you to quickly determine the lowest value in a specified range of numbers. ## A Practical Example Imagine you are tracking the sales figures for different products over a month: ### Sales Data Table: | ProductID | Sales | | - | - | | 101 | 250 | | 102 | 150 | | 103 | 300 | | 104 | 200 | You want to find out which product had the lowest sales during the month. ## MIN Formula To achieve this, you would use the MIN function as follows: ``` =MIN(B2:B5) ``` In this formula: - `B2:B5` is the range where the function will look for the minimum sales value. ## Result of the Formula When you apply the MIN formula to the Sales Data Table, the output would be: | Minimum Sales | | - | | 150 | This indicates that the product with ProductID 102 had the lowest sales at 150. ## Why Use MIN? The MIN function is beneficial because it provides a quick and efficient way to analyze numerical data. It helps you identify the lowest values in your data sets, which can be crucial for making informed business decisions, evaluating performance, and understanding trends. ## Key Takeaways: - **MIN**: A fundamental Google Sheets function that finds the smallest number in a specified range. - **Simplicity**: Easy to use and understand, making it accessible for users of all skill levels. - **Data Analysis**: Essential for analyzing sales figures, test scores, or any numerical data where identifying the minimum value is important. - **Common Use Cases**: Ideal for financial analysis, performance tracking, and any scenario where understanding the lowest values is necessary. The MIN function is a vital tool for anyone working with numerical data in Google Sheets, providing a straightforward way to enhance data analysis and reporting capabilities. Happy spreadsheeting! ## Example use case You have a sales report in Column C showing monthly sales figures. By using the MIN formula, you can quickly identify the lowest sales figure for the month, helping you pinpoint areas needing improvement and track overall sales performance effectively. ## Need more help with Google Sheets formulas? Sign up for Better Analyst and get unlimited AI-powered formula generation, explanations, and advanced data analysis. [Create Free Account](https://betteranalyst.com/signup)[Try Formula Generator](https://betteranalyst.com/excel-ai) ## Google Sheets how-to guides - [How To Add A Column In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-add-a-column-in-google-sheets) - [How To Alphabetize In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-alphabetize-in-google-sheets) - [How To Autofit In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-autofit-in-google-sheets) - [How To Calculate Percentage In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-calculate-percentage-in-google-sheets) - [How To Combine Two Columns In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-combine-two-columns-in-google-sheets) - [How To Copy Formula In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-copy-formula-in-google-sheets) - [How To Count Unique Values In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-count-unique-values-in-google-sheets) - [How To Create A Pivot Table In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-create-a-pivot-table-in-google-sheets) ## Explore all Google Sheets formulas Browse our complete library of Google Sheets formula guides Compare your options ## Decide with evidence, not a sales pitch. 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