Cellwise

Math function

Excel MIN function

MIN returns the smallest number from the cells you give it. Use it to find the cheapest quote, the lowest score, or the earliest date in a list. Text and empty cells are ignored.

fx=MIN(number1, [number2], ...)

Arguments

number1
The first number, cell or range to check.
number2
Optional. More numbers, cells or ranges, up to 255.

MIN examples

Every result below was calculated live from this sample sheet.

ABC
1SupplierQuoteDelivery days
2Northwind18405
3Acme Supply17259
4BrightParts19903
5Coastal Co1760TBC
6Delta Depot18157
  1. fx=MIN(B2:B6)

    Result: 1725

    The lowest quote in the list.

  2. fx=MIN(C2:C6)

    Result: 3

    The fastest delivery time. "TBC" is text, so MIN skips it.

  3. fx=MIN(B2:B6,1700)

    Result: 1700

    Add a plain number to compare against. 1700 is lower than every quote, so it wins.

  4. fx=INDEX(A2:A6,MATCH(MIN(B2:B6),B2:B6,0))

    Result: Acme Supply

    Combine with INDEX and MATCH to return the supplier with the lowest quote.

How to use MIN

  1. Click an empty cell.
  2. Type =MIN(
  3. Select the range to check.
  4. Close the bracket and press Enter.

Common MIN mistakes

Getting 0 when you expected a real minimum

A cell with 0 in it counts as a number. Blanks are skipped, but zeros are not. Use MINIFS or a FILTER to exclude them.

Numbers stored as text

MIN ignores text in a range, so a value stored as text is never considered. Convert it to a real number.

Wanting the second smallest

MIN only returns the very smallest. Use SMALL(range,2) for the second, SMALL(range,3) for the third.

MIN FAQ

Why does MIN return 0 in Excel?

Either there is a real 0 in the range, or the range has no numbers at all. When MIN finds no numbers it returns 0 rather than an error.

How do I find the minimum value with a condition in Excel?

Use MINIFS, for example =MINIFS(B2:B10,A2:A10,"East"). In older versions use an array formula with MIN and IF.

Does MIN ignore blank cells?

Yes. Empty cells, text and TRUE/FALSE values inside a range are all ignored.

Practice MIN in these lessons

Guides that use MIN

Related functions

Updated 2026-10-31