How To Calculate Square Root in Excel
Jan 10, 2025
Did you know you can calculate square root in Excel without a calculator?
Microsoft Excel makes it easy to handle square roots with just a few simple steps. In this post, we’ll walk you through the fastest and most efficient methods of doing it using built-in formulas. Even if you’re new to Excel, you’ll find these tips easy to follow and apply.
Using the EXCEL SQRT Function
The SQRT function is the simplest way to calculate the square root of a number in Excel. This built-in function is ideal for most basic calculations. Here is the formula for square root in Excel:
=SQRT(number)
How it works:
The function takes a single argument, number, which is the value whose square root you want to calculate.
Step-by-Step Example:
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Enter a number in any cell (e.g., 49 in cell A1).
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In another cell, type the formula =SQRT(A1).
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Press Enter. Excel will return 7, which is the square root of 49.
Handling negative numbers:
The SQRT function cannot compute the square root of a negative number, resulting in a #NUM! error. To manage this:
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Use the ABS function to take the absolute value of the negative number:
Example: =SQRT(ABS(-16)) returns 4.
More Ways to Find Square Root in Excel
There are two more ways to find the square root of a number in Excel. Let's explore them together.
1. Using the exponentiation operator.
Excel allows you to calculate square roots using exponentiation. This method represents the square root as raising a number to the power of 0.5. It is useful when working with mathematical formulas or combining square roots with other calculations.
Formula: =number^0.5 or =number^(1/2)
Example.
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Enter a number in cell A1 (e.g., 64).
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In another cell, type the formula =A1^0.5.
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Press Enter. The result will be 8, the square root of 64.
2. Using the POWER function.
The Excel POWER function is great for calculating powers and roots, including square roots. This method is particularly useful for users who prefer working with Excel functions.
Formula: =POWER(number, power)
Example:
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Enter a number in cell A1 (e.g., 81).
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In another cell, type the formula =POWER(A1, 0.5).
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Press Enter. Excel will return 9, the square root of 81.
Calculating Nth Roots in Excel
Excel isn’t limited to square roots. You can calculate cube roots, fourth roots, or any nth root using the exponentiation operator or the POWER function.
Formula: =number^(1/n)
Example.
To calculate the cube root of 27 in cell A1:
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Type =A1^(1/3) into a cell.
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The result will be 3.
Calculating Nth Roots in Excel
Excel isn’t limited to square roots. You can calculate cube roots, fourth roots, or any nth root using the exponentiation operator or the POWER function.
Formula: =number^(1/n)
Example.
To calculate the cube root of 27 in cell A1:
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Type =A1^(1/3) into a cell.
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The result will be 3.
Handling Errors and Special Cases
Errors may appear when working you with square roots. Use the IFERROR function to manage these errors effectively.
Example:
To handle potential errors, use: =IFERROR(SQRT(A1), "Invalid Input")
If A1 contains a negative number, this formula will display "Invalid Input" instead of an error.
Final Thoughts
Excel offers multiple methods to calculate square roots, from the simple SQRT function to using exponents and the POWER function. Mastering these techniques will improve your efficiency and allow you to easily tackle more advanced calculations.
For more easy-to-follow Excel guides and the latest Excel Templates, visit Simple Sheets and the related articles section of this blog post.
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FAQ
1. How do I calculate square roots of negative numbers in Excel?
Use the ABS function to find the square root of the absolute value:
=SQRT(ABS(-25)).
2. Can Excel calculate cube roots or other nth roots?
Yes! Use the formula =number^(1/n) for nth roots.
3. How do I handle errors in square root calculations?
Use the IFERROR function to display custom messages or alternative results:
=IFERROR(SQRT(number), "Error").
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