The MAX
function in Google Sheets is a handy tool that simplifies the process of identifying the maximum value within a given range. In a set of values, it yields the greatest value. By mastering this fundamental Google Sheets function, we can streamline our data analysis and make informed decisions based on the highest values in our datasets. Let’s delve into the steps of calculating the maximum value in Google Sheets.
The basic syntax for the MAX
function is as follows:
=MAX(number1, number2,...)
Here, number1
and number2
represent the cell number or any numeric value. It’s worth noting that we can include additional cells as needed.
Note: Ranges or cell references may be used instead of explicit values.
If we simply want to find out the maximum value between 10, 20, and 30, we'll use the MAX
function using the formula given below:
=MAX(10,20,30)
If we want to find MAX
by providing the list of cells, we can use the formula given below:
=MAX(A1,A2,A3)
If we want to find MAX
by providing the range of cells, we can use the formula given below:
=MAX(A1:A3)
If we want to use the range of cells and want to skip a cell number, in that case, we can use the formula given below:
=MAX(A1:A3,A5)
The above formula calculates the maximum of cells A1, A2, A3, and A5.
The following is a step-by-step guide to using the MAX
function:
Select the cell: Click on the cell where we want the maximum value to appear.
Use the MAX function: Type =MAX(
into the selected cell.
Select the range: If we want to calculate the maximum of the number of cells in the range A1 to A5, there are two ways to achieve the desired result:
We can enter “A1:A5” after the opening parenthesis and then close the parenthesis and press the “Enter” button. The formula should look something like this: =MAX(A1:A5)
.
We can also enter “A1,A2,A3,A4,A5” after the opening parenthesis and then close the parenthesis and press the “Enter” button. The formula should look something like this: =MAX(A1,A2,A3,A4,A5)
.
Let’s now apply the above steps to our dataset. Let’s suppose we have the following dataset:
Now, our objective is to determine the maximum marks a student gets in the required dataset. We have seen two ways to calculate the maximum. Let’s use both ways:
First, we select the cell where we need to calculate the MAX
. Let’s suppose here the cell number is B9. Then, we select the "cell(B9)" and write the following in the cell:
=MAX(B3,B4,B5,B6,B7)
Let’s visualize the above steps in action.
Note: As you can see in the above slide, when multiple cells are added, the system automatically highlights the cell number and alters its color for easier identification.
If an empty cell is included in a maximum formula and subsequently populated with a value, the value in cell B9, where the maximum is calculated, will automatically update to reflect the new value.
First, we select the cell where we need to calculate the MAX
. Let’s suppose here the cell number is B9. After we select the “cell(B9)” and write the following in the cell:
=MAX(B3:B7)
Let’s visualize the above steps in action.
Note: If you want to skip any subject, let’s say “Geography,” you can simply write the range formula as follows:
=MAX(B3:B5,B7)
If we try to find the product of any value (other than numbers) enclosed in double quotes, it will throw a #VALUE!
error.
Empty cells, text, the logical values TRUE
and FALSE
, and text values are all ignored when used with a range or by typing the cell numbers.
Unlock your potential: Google Sheets fundamentals series, all in one place!
To deepen your understanding of Google Sheets, explore our series of Answers below:
Common aggregate functions in Google Sheets
Learn about essential aggregate functions like SUM, AVERAGE, MIN, MAX, COUNT, and more for efficient data analysis.
How to calculate the minimum in Google Sheets
Discover how to find the smallest value in a dataset using the MIN
function.
How to calculate the median in Google Sheets
Learn how to determine the middle value of a dataset using the MEDIAN
function.
How to calculate the maximum in Google Sheets
Explore how to identify the largest value in a dataset using the MAX
function.
How to calculate the average in Google Sheets
Understand how to compute the mean of a dataset using the AVERAGE
function.
How to calculate student grades from percentages in Google Sheets
Learn how to use formulas and conditional formatting to convert percentages into letter grades.
How to count values in Google Sheets
Discover how to count the number of values in a range using functions like COUNT
, COUNTA
, and COUNTIF
.
How to calculate the sum in Google Sheets
Explore how to add up values in a dataset using the SUM
function.
How to calculate the mode in Google Sheets
Learn how to find the most frequently occurring value in a dataset using the MODE
function.
How to calculate the product in Google Sheets
Understand how to multiply values in a dataset using the PRODUCT
function.
Free Resources