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LARGE Function

Excel 2007+

Summary

The Excel LARGE function returns the k-th largest value from a dataset, enabling you to identify top performers, highest scores, or any specific rank position from largest to smallest within your data range.

Syntax

LARGE(array, k)

Parameters

Parameter	Type	Required	Description
array	`Range/Array`	Yes	Data range containing numbers to rank from largest to smallest
k	`Number`	Yes	Rank position counting from the largest value (1 = largest, 2 = second largest, etc.)

Using the LARGE Function

LARGE is essential for competitive analysis, performance ranking, and statistical reporting. Use it to find top sales performers, highest exam scores, fastest completion times, or any scenario requiring ordered results from largest values.

Common LARGE Examples

Find Top 3 Sales Performers

=LARGE(B2:B10,1)

Returns the highest sales value from range B2:B10 (1st place)

Runner-Up Score

=LARGE(A2:A20,2)

Returns the second highest score from range A2:A20

3rd Fastest Time

=LARGE(C2:C15,3)

Returns the third fastest completion time

Last Place (Smallest)

=LARGE(D2:D8,COUNT(D2:D8))

Returns the smallest value by using total count as k

Frequently Asked Questions

LARGE returns #NUM! error. k must be between 1 and the number of data points.

Yes, LARGE handles duplicates correctly and maintains their ranking positions.

Yes, Excel treats dates and times as serial numbers, so LARGE works perfectly.

LARGE ranks from largest to smallest (top-down), SMALL ranks from smallest to largest (bottom-up).

Common Errors and Solutions

#NUM! error

Cause: k is ≤ 0 or greater than number of data points

Solution: Ensure k is between 1 and COUNT(array)

#VALUE! error

Cause: array contains non-numeric values

Solution: Clean data or use with numeric-only ranges

Empty array

Cause: array range has no data

Solution: Verify range contains numeric values

Notes

LARGE(array,1) always returns the maximum value
LARGE(array,n) returns the minimum where n=COUNT(array)
Use with IFERROR for robust ranking: =IFERROR(LARGE(B2:B10,ROW(A1)),"")
Perfect companion to SMALL function for complete rankings
Array form works in Excel 365/2021 dynamic arrays

Compatibility

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

Not available in: Excel 2003, Excel XP, Excel 2000, Excel 97

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