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INTERCEPT Function

Excel 2007+

Summary

The INTERCEPT function calculates the y-axis intersection point of the best-fit regression line through provided x-values and y-values. It determines the dependent variable value when the independent variable equals zero, making it essential for linear trend extrapolation.

Syntax

INTERCEPT(known_y's, known_x's)

Parameters

Parameter	Type	Required	Description
known_y's	`Number array`	Yes	Dependent set of observations - the y-values in your data pairs
known_x's	`Number array`	Yes	Independent set of observations - the x-values in your data pairs

Using the INTERCEPT Function

INTERCEPT is perfect for statistical analysis and forecasting. Use it to find baseline values in linear relationships, predict outcomes at zero input, or establish regression model constants. Commonly applied in scientific data analysis, quality control, and business forecasting.

Common INTERCEPT Examples

Basic Y-Intercept Calculation

=INTERCEPT(A2:A6, B2:B6)

Calculates y-intercept using temperature (x) and resistance (y) data pairs. Returns approximately 0.0484.

Predicting Zero Temperature Value

=INTERCEPT(C2:C10, D2:D10)

Estimates material property value at 0°C when measurements start from room temperature.

Sales Trend Baseline

=INTERCEPT(SalesData[Revenue], SalesData[Month])

Finds baseline revenue when month=0 for sales forecasting model.

Frequently Asked Questions

#N/A error is returned. Both arrays must contain the same number of data points.

Yes, text, logical values, and empty cells are ignored, but zero values are included.

INTERCEPT returns only the intercept. LINEST returns complete regression statistics. Algorithms differ for collinear data.

Common Errors and Solutions

#N/A!

Cause: Different number of data points in known_y's and known_x's, or no data

Solution: Ensure both ranges contain the same count of numeric values

#DIV/0!

Cause: Collinear data where multiple solutions exist

Solution: Add data variation or use LINEST function

#VALUE!

Cause: Non-numeric arguments provided

Solution: Verify ranges contain only numbers or acceptable references

Notes

Equation: a = AVERAGE(known_y's) - SLOPE(known_y's,known_x's) * AVERAGE(known_x's)
Available since Excel 2007
Pairs perfectly with SLOPE function for complete linear regression
Ideal for physics experiments, quality control charts, economic modeling

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+