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STDEVP Function

Excel 2007+

Summary

The STDEVP function calculates the standard deviation for an entire population dataset. This statistical function measures how much individual data points vary from the population mean, using the complete 'n' divisor method for population analysis.

Syntax

STDEVP(number1,[number2],...)

Parameters

Parameter	Type	Required	Description
number1	`Number`	Yes	Required first population value or range
number2,...	`Number`	No	Optional additional values, arrays, or cell references (up to 254 more arguments)

Using the STDEVP Function

STDEVP analyzes complete population data when you have all values rather than a sample. Use it for finite datasets where every data point matters, such as measuring variation across all employees in a small company or all test scores from a single class.

Common STDEVP Examples

Basic Population Standard Deviation

=STDEVP(A3:A12)

Calculates standard deviation for 10 tool strength measurements (result: 26.0546)

Multiple Value Arguments

=STDEVP(85,92,78,96,84,89,91,87)

Population standard deviation for 8 test scores

Mixed Range and Values

=STDEVP(B2:B10,95,102)

Combines range data with individual population values

Frequently Asked Questions

STDEVP uses entire population (divides by n), STDEV uses sample data (divides by n-1)

STDEVP is legacy but identical to STDEV.P. Use STDEV.P for new work as Microsoft recommends it.

No, only numbers count from ranges. Use STDEVPA to include logical values and text numbers.

Common Errors and Solutions

#VALUE! error

Cause: Non-numeric arguments that can't convert to numbers

Solution: Ensure all arguments contain valid numeric data

#DIV/0! error

Cause: Single numeric value or empty population

Solution: Provide at least two different numbers for meaningful standard deviation

Notes

Microsoft recommends STDEV.P over STDEVP for new spreadsheets
Uses population formula: SQRT(AVERAGE((x-mean)^2)) with n divisor
Directly entered TRUE/FALSE count as 1/0
Array arguments process only numeric cells
Available since Excel 2000, supported through Excel 365

Compatibility

Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365

Not available in: Excel 97-2003 (use analysis toolpak)

Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+