Summary

VAR.S returns the variance for a sample. Variance measures spread too, but it does so in squared units, which is why many people find standard deviation easier to read. Even so, variance is still important because it is part of the math behind standard deviation and many statistical models.

The .S means sample. Use this version when the values you have are only part of a larger population.

Syntax

=VAR.S(number1, [number2], ...)

You can use a range, separate references, typed values, or a mix.

Arguments

• number1 - [required] The first number, range, or reference in the sample.
• number2, ... - [optional] Additional sample values or ranges.

VAR.S vs Other Functions

Using the VAR.S Function

Variance and standard deviation talk about the same idea, which is spread, but they express it differently. Variance uses squared units, so the number is not as intuitive to read directly. That is why people often report standard deviation, while variance stays useful for calculation and deeper analysis.

Microsoft notes that VAR.S assumes the data is a sample from a population. It also notes that logical values and text representations of numbers typed directly into the argument list are counted, while text and logical values inside references are ignored. Blank cells in references are ignored too.

When you compare two samples, the one with the larger VAR.S result has more spread around its mean. The one with the smaller result is more tightly clustered.

Example 1 - Measure sample variance in a range

This is the standard pattern when the sample is already stored in cells.

=VAR.S(B1:B5) // Returns the sample variance for the range.

Example 2 - Check a tight sample

Values that stay close together produce a smaller variance.

=VAR.S(10,11,10) // Returns a relatively small sample variance.

Example 3 - Check a wide sample

A wider gap between sample values pushes the variance up quickly.

=VAR.S(10,90) // Returns a much larger sample variance.

Example 4 - Use it as a sample spread check

This helps when you want a sample-based spread measure, especially for deeper statistical work.

=VAR.S(B1:B10) // Returns the sample variance for the range.

Conclusion Recap

• Main job: VAR.S measures sample variance.
• Use it for samples: Choose it when the data is only part of a larger population.
• Variance is squared spread: It describes the same idea as standard deviation, but in squared units.
• Larger result means more spread: Smaller result means tighter clustering.
• Reference behavior: Text and logical values in references are ignored.
• Related option: Use STDEV.S if you want the spread in the original units.