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DMIN Function
Summary
The DMIN function finds the smallest numeric value in a specified field (column) from a database range that matches your defined criteria. Perfect for extracting minimum values from filtered datasets without pivot tables.
Syntax
DMIN(database, field, criteria)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| database | Range |
Yes | Complete database range with headers (records as rows, fields as columns) |
| field | Text/Number |
Yes | Field identifier - use column name in quotes or position number |
| criteria | Range |
Yes | Criteria range with matching headers and conditions below |
Using the DMIN Function
DMIN excels at database operations, scanning your data table to return the lowest value in a specific column that meets multiple filtering conditions. Use it for inventory analysis, sales reporting, or any scenario requiring minimum values from filtered datasets.
Common DMIN Examples
Minimum Profit for Filtered Trees
=DMIN(A5:E11, "Profit", A1:F3)Returns $75 - the lowest profit among Apple trees 10-16 feet tall OR any Pear trees
Lowest Sales by Region
=DMIN(A1:D20, "Sales", F1:G3)Finds minimum sales value for "North" region where Quantity > 50
Employee Minimum Hours
=DMIN(B1:F25, 3, H1:H3)Returns lowest hours worked (column 3) for employees named "John"
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#NUM! Error
Cause: No records match the criteria or field contains no numbers
Solution: Verify criteria range matches database headers exactly and contains numeric data
#VALUE! Error
Cause: Invalid field reference or criteria range issues
Solution: Ensure field uses correct column name in quotes or valid position number
Wrong minimum value
Cause: Criteria range overlaps database or placed below list
Solution: Position criteria range away from database and ensure no overlap
Notes
- First row of database and criteria MUST contain identical column headers
- Criteria range needs at least one header + one condition row
- Use blank row in criteria for entire column operations
- Multiple criteria rows create OR logic; same-column entries create AND logic
- Avoid placing criteria below database to prevent data insertion issues
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in:
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+