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MOD Function
Summary
The Excel MOD function calculates the remainder after dividing one number by another. Unlike standard division, MOD preserves the sign of the divisor in the result, making it invaluable for cyclic calculations, date arithmetic, and modular operations.
Syntax
MOD(number, divisor)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| number | Number |
Yes | The number for which you want the remainder after division |
| divisor | Number |
Yes | The number by which to divide the first argument |
Using the MOD Function
MOD excels in scenarios requiring remainder calculations, such as determining positions in cycles, wrapping dates around months, or creating repeating patterns. Its unique sign preservation distinguishes it from simple division operators.
Common MOD Examples
Basic Positive Division
=MOD(3,2)Remainder of 3 divided by 2 returns 1
Negative Dividend Example
=MOD(-3,2)Remainder of -3/2 returns 1 (same sign as divisor 2)
Negative Divisor Example
=MOD(3,-2)Remainder of 3/-2 returns -1 (same sign as divisor -2)
Date Wrapping Example
=MOD(45000,365)Find day of year from Excel date serial (45000 mod 365)
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#DIV/0!
Cause: Divisor argument is zero
Solution: Ensure divisor is never zero
#VALUE!
Cause: Non-numeric arguments provided
Solution: Verify both arguments contain numbers
Notes
- MOD(n,d) = n - d*INT(n/d)
- Result always has same sign as divisor
- Useful for week/day calculations from dates
- Common in game development (board positions)
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in:
Content last reviewed: December 11, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+