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SIGN function in Google Sheets

Given an input number, returns `-1` if it is negative, `1` if positive, and `0` if it is zero.

=SIGN(value)

SIGN syntax and parameters

One argument, one required.

  • valuenumberRequired

    The value whose sign will be evaluated.

SIGN examples

Formulas you'll actually reuse.

  1. −1, 0, or 1 for below, on, or above target:

    =SIGN(B2 - C2)

    Result1

  2. How many rows came in under target:

    =SUMPRODUCT(--(SIGN(B2:B50 - C2:C50) = -1))

    Result12

SIGN in Excel

Same name — your formula ports as-is.

Try SIGN in the playground

Edit the example — nothing to install.

Preloaded with the SIGN formula from Example 1 — change anything and watch it respond.

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