Quick Navigation

SKEW Function

Excel 2007+

Summary

The Excel SKEW function measures the asymmetry of a data distribution around its mean. Positive values indicate right-skewed distributions with longer tails toward higher values, while negative values show left-skewed distributions with tails extending toward lower values.

Syntax

SKEW(number1, [number2], ...)

Parameters

Parameter	Type	Required	Description
number1	`Number`	Yes	First required data point, range, or array for analysis
number2, ...	`Number`	No	Optional values up to 255 total arguments (numbers, arrays, or cell references)

Using the SKEW Function

SKEW helps analysts understand data distribution shapes. Use it to detect whether your dataset leans toward higher or lower values, which impacts statistical modeling, forecasting accuracy, and decision-making processes.

Common SKEW Examples

Basic Skewness Calculation

=SKEW(A2:A11)

Calculates skewness for dataset in cells A2 through A11, returning positive value (0.359543) indicating right-skewed distribution.

Direct Value Input

=SKEW(3,4,5,2,3,4,5,6,4,7)

Computes skewness from individual values showing moderate positive skew.

Multiple Ranges

=SKEW(B2:B10, C2:C10)

Combines two ranges to analyze combined dataset distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Positive skewness (>0) indicates a right-skewed distribution where the tail extends toward higher values, common in income data or wait times.

Occurs when fewer than 3 data points exist or sample standard deviation equals zero.

SKEW uses n-1 (sample data), SKEW.P uses n (population data). Use SKEW for samples, SKEW.P for complete populations.

Common Errors and Solutions

#DIV/0!

Cause: Fewer than 3 data points or zero standard deviation

Solution: Ensure at least 3 values with variation in dataset

#VALUE!

Cause: Non-numeric arguments or error values in data

Solution: Clean data to contain only numbers, use IFERROR for problematic cells

#NUM!

Cause: Too many arguments (>255)

Solution: Use array references instead of individual arguments

Notes

Uses sample skewness formula: G1 = [n(n-1)]½(n-2)/s³ × Σ(xi-μ)³
Ignores text, logical values, and empty cells in ranges
Counts directly entered logical values and text numbers
Zero values are included in calculations
Available since Excel 2007

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+