Excel - AVEDEV Function



AVEDEV Function

In the given dataset, the Excel AVEDEV function eliminates the requirement to compute the mean and deviation separately. This versatile function quickly extracts the average deviation of the different field values from their mean. The average deviation is an alternative way to represent the variance. For example, By using the AVEDEV function, you can identify anomalous drops or spikes in the network traffic by comparing the real-time data usage with the calculated average deviation.

Compatibility

This advanced Excel function is compatible with the following versions of MS-Excel −

  • Excel for Microsoft 365
  • Excel for Microsoft 365 for Mac
  • Excel for the web
  • Excel 2024
  • Excel 2024 for Mac
  • Excel 2021
  • Excel 2021 for Mac
  • Excel 2019
  • Excel 2016
  • Excel 2013
  • Excel 2010
  • Excel 2007

Syntax

The syntax of the AVEDEV function is as follows −

=AVEDEV(number1, [number2] ...)

Arguments

You can use the following arguments with the AVEDEV function −

Argument Description Required/Optional
Number1 It indicates a numeric value, cell reference, or range of cells. Required
number2, ... An array or other numbers up to 255 to calculate the average absolute deviation. Optional

Points to Remember

  • The mathematical notation for average deviation is 1n∑|x−x¯|1n∑|x−x¯|
  • If the mixed data points are specified in the cell ranges, then Boolean values, text values, and blank cells are ignored, and zero are included. However, the text representation of numeric values is counted in the reference argument.
  • If the arguments contain only the non-numeric value, then the AVEDEV function will retrieve the #VALUE! error.

Examples of AVEDEV Function in Excel

Practice the following examples to get the master proficiency in the AVEDEV function in Excel.

Example 1: How to calculate the Average Absolute Deviation in Excel?

In this example, we will compute the AVEDEV formula to get the average absolute deviation for the specific cell range.

Solution

Step 1 − The different data points comprise numeric values are showcased in the C2:C4 cell and select the cell C3 and enter the formula =AVEDEV(C2:H2) in the C3 cell and hit Enter.

AVEDEV Function

Therefore, the AVEDEV function retrieves the 22.88889, representing the average absolute deviation.

AVEDEV Function 1

Example 2: Advanced AVEDEV Function Usage in Excel

In this example, we will find solutions to different case scenarios related to the AVEDEV function.

Lets get started!

Case 1

How to compute the average deviations of the mixed data points (5,7,3,"8",TRUE,FALSE) from their mean?

Solution

First, enter the formula =AVEDEV(5,7,"8",3,TRUE, FALSE) in the B3 cell. In this expression, all the reference arguments, including TRUE, FALSE, and "8," are considered while evaluating this formula.

AVEDEV Function 2

Therefore, the AVEDEV function returns the average deviation of 2.667.

AVEDEV Function 3

Case 2

If the data points consist of the numeric value and text string.

Will the AVEDEV work efficiently in this scenario?

Solution

You can enter the formula =AVEDEV(56,76,"PL","POWER") in C3 cell and hit Enter.

AVEDEV Function 4

Therefore, the AVEDEV function returns the #VALUE! error as the text values cause error.

AVEDEV Function 5

Case 3

What is the result of the AVEDEV function if the different arguments contain the same data point.

Solution

First, select the D3 cell, and type the formula =AVEDEV(76,76,76), and press Enter. Here, three arguments have the same number, 76.

AVEDEV Function 6

Therefore, the AVEDEV function retrieves the value of 0.

AVEDEV Function 7

Download Practice Sheet

You can download and use the sample data sheet to practice the AVEDEV function.

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