SIGN

Formulas / SIGN
Calculate the sign of a number.
=SIGN(number)
  • number - required, any real number

Examples

  • =SIGN(5)

    The SIGN function returns 1 when given a positive number as its argument. In this example, the argument is 5, so the SIGN function will return 1.

  • =SIGN(-3)

    The SIGN function returns -1 when given a negative number as its argument. In this example, the argument is -3, so the SIGN function will return -1.

  • =ABS(A1)

    The ABS function returns the absolute value of a number or cell reference. In this example, the argument is A1, so the ABS function will return 3 if -3 is in A1.


Summary

The SIGN function allows users to easily determine the sign of any number; it returns 1 if the number is positive, 0 if the number is 0, and -1 if the number is negative.

  • The SIGN function takes a numeric value as its only argument and returns +1, -1 or 0 depending on the value of the argument.
  • The function returns a -1 if the argument is a negative number, 1 if it is a positive number, and 0 if it is equal to 0.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the SIGN function do?
The SIGN function is used to identify whether a numeric value is positive, negative, or zero. It returns a result of 1, 0, or -1 which can be used in other calculations.
What does the SIGN function return for a positive number?
The SIGN function returns 1 for a positive number.
What does the SIGN function return for a negative number?
The SIGN function returns -1 for a negative number.
What does the SIGN function return for a zero?
The SIGN function returns 0 for a zero.
What types of calculations can I use the SIGN function for?
The SIGN function can be used in a variety of calculations. It can be used to identify the sign of a number, compare the sign of two numbers, or to perform calculations based on the sign of a number.
What other functions can be used with the SIGN function?
The SIGN function can be used in combination with other functions such as ABS, ROUND, and INT. It can also be used in combination with mathematical operators such as +, -, *, and /.

Related Functions

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