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ABS
A easy numeric formula for measuring distance from zero without caring whether the value is positive or negative.
Syntax
=ABS(...)Step-by-step explanation
- 1Select the numeric value or range that needs to be adjusted.
- 2Choose the rounding or comparison function that matches the outcome you want.
- 3Press Enter and compare the returned value with the original number.
Common mistakes
Using it when sign matters
Expecting it to change the cell format
Applying it to non-numeric text
Example table
A quick scenario to connect the syntax to the result.
| 12 | 18 |
| 8 | 42 |
Formula
=ABS(A1:B2)
Result
42
Worked example
- 1Read the sample data first so you know what the formula needs to solve.
- 2Enter =ABS(A1:B2) in the result cell and press Enter.
- 3Check that the output matches 42.
Practice area
Use ABS when you care about size or deviation rather than sign.
Match against the syntax block above.