# Google Sheets SMALL Function: Syntax, Examples & Tips - URL: https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/small-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 SMALL function returns the k-th smallest value in a data set, allowing users to find specific ranked values easily. ``` SMALL(data, n) ``` Generate FormulaExplain Formula One free generation or explanation per browser, shared across Excel and Google Sheets. Account usage limits apply afterward. Describe the SMALL you need in plain EnglishGenerate Formula ## Parameters **`data`**:\ The range of cells or array from which you want to find the smallest value. **`n`**:\ The position (rank) of the smallest value you want to return, where 1 represents the smallest value, 2 represents the second smallest value, and so on. ## What is a SMALL Function? The *SMALL* function in Google Sheets is a useful tool that allows you to find the k-th smallest value in a dataset. This function is particularly helpful when you want to analyze data and extract specific values based on their rank. It can be used in various scenarios, such as finding the lowest scores in a list, identifying the smallest expenses, or any situation where you need to focus on the lower end of a data set. In simpler terms, SMALL helps you to pinpoint specific low values in a range of numbers, making it easier to analyze and interpret your data. ## A Practical Example Imagine you are managing a list of student scores in a class: ### Scores Table: | StudentID | StudentName | Score | | - | - | - | | 1 | Alice | 85 | | 2 | Bob | 92 | | 3 | Charlie | 78 | | 4 | David | 88 | | 5 | Eva | 95 | You want to find the second lowest score in the class. ## SMALL Formula To achieve this, you would use the SMALL function as follows: ``` =SMALL(A2:A6, 2) ``` In this formula: - `A2:A6` is the range containing the scores you want to analyze. - `2` indicates that you want to find the second smallest value in that range. ## Result of the Formula When you apply the SMALL formula to the Scores Table, the output would be: | Second Lowest Score | | - | | 85 | In this case, the formula returns 85, which is the second lowest score in the list. ## Why Use SMALL? The SMALL function is beneficial because it simplifies the process of identifying specific low values in a dataset. It allows you to easily rank and retrieve values without having to sort the entire dataset manually. This can save time and enhance your data analysis capabilities. ## Key Takeaways: - **SMALL**: A function that returns the k-th smallest value from a dataset. - **Versatile**: Useful for various applications, including ranking scores, expenses, and other numerical data. - **Efficiency**: Saves time by allowing you to extract specific values without sorting the entire dataset. - **Common Use Cases**: Ideal for academic performance analysis, financial data evaluation, and any scenario where low values are of interest. The SMALL function is an essential 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 data table with Column A listing sales amounts. To identify the lowest sales figures, you can use the SMALL formula to extract the top three lowest sales amounts, helping to pinpoint areas for improvement in your sales strategy. ## 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 - [Google Sheets Conditional Formatting](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/google-sheets-conditional-formatting) - [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) ## Explore all Google Sheets formulas Browse our complete library of Google Sheets formula guides Compare your options ## Decide with evidence, not a sales pitch. Open a neutral research prompt in the AI tool you already use. Compare capabilities, limitations, and fit before you choose. 1. [01ChatGPTOpen a balanced comparison prompt in ChatGPT.](https://chatgpt.com/?prompt=Compare%20Better%20Analyst%20with%20using%20a%20general-purpose%20AI%20assistant%20for%20data%20analysis.%20Evaluate%20spreadsheet%20and%20document%20analysis%2C%20dashboards%2C%20repeatable%20reports%2C%20code%20transparency%2C%20data%20connections%2C%20pricing%2C%20and%20limitations.%20Use%20current%20public%20sources%2C%20distinguish%20verified%20facts%20from%20assumptions%2C%20and%20explain%20which%20types%20of%20users%20each%20option%20fits%20best.) 2. [02ClaudeOpen the same research prompt in Claude.](https://claude.ai/new?q=Compare%20Better%20Analyst%20with%20using%20a%20general-purpose%20AI%20assistant%20for%20data%20analysis.%20Evaluate%20spreadsheet%20and%20document%20analysis%2C%20dashboards%2C%20repeatable%20reports%2C%20code%20transparency%2C%20data%20connections%2C%20pricing%2C%20and%20limitations.%20Use%20current%20public%20sources%2C%20distinguish%20verified%20facts%20from%20assumptions%2C%20and%20explain%20which%20types%20of%20users%20each%20option%20fits%20best.) 3. [03PerplexityResearch the comparison with linked web sources.](https://www.perplexity.ai/search?q=Compare%20Better%20Analyst%20with%20using%20a%20general-purpose%20AI%20assistant%20for%20data%20analysis.%20Evaluate%20spreadsheet%20and%20document%20analysis%2C%20dashboards%2C%20repeatable%20reports%2C%20code%20transparency%2C%20data%20connections%2C%20pricing%2C%20and%20limitations.%20Use%20current%20public%20sources%2C%20distinguish%20verified%20facts%20from%20assumptions%2C%20and%20explain%20which%20types%20of%20users%20each%20option%20fits%20best.) AI answers can be incomplete. Check source links, current pricing, and product documentation before deciding.