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SUMSQ Function
Summary
The Excel SUMSQ function calculates the sum of squares of all provided numbers. This powerful mathematical function is essential for statistical calculations, variance computation, and vector magnitude determination.
Syntax
SUMSQ(number1, [number2], ...)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| number1 | Number|Range|Array |
Yes | First number, array, or reference to numbers |
| [number2] | Number|Range|Array |
No | Additional numbers, arrays, or references (optional, up to 255 total arguments) |
Using the SUMSQ Function
SUMSQ is particularly valuable in statistical analysis where you need to calculate the sum of squared deviations, standard deviation components, or Pythagorean theorem applications. Use it with ranges for efficient processing of large datasets.
Common SUMSQ Examples
Basic SUMSQ Calculation
=SUMSQ(3,4)Returns 25 (3² + 4² = 9 + 16 = 25)
SUMSQ with Cell Range
=SUMSQ(A1:A5)Sums squares of all numeric values in range A1:A5
Multiple Arguments
=SUMSQ(2,3,4,5)Returns 54 (4+9+16+25)
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#VALUE! Error
Cause: Arguments contain text that cannot be converted to numbers
Solution: Ensure all arguments contain valid numeric values
Error Propagation
Cause: Any argument contains an error value like #DIV/0!
Solution: Use IFERROR to handle error values before SUMSQ
Notes
- Available in Excel 2007 and later versions
- Maximum 255 arguments allowed
- Logical values and text representations of numbers are included when typed directly as arguments
- Perfect for calculating Euclidean distance: SQRT(SUMSQ(x differences, y differences))
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in: Excel 2003 and earlier
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+