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SKEW.P Function
Summary
The SKEW.P function calculates the skewness of a population dataset, measuring the asymmetry of the distribution around its mean. Positive skewness indicates a right-tailed distribution, negative skewness a left-tailed one, and zero suggests symmetry.
Syntax
SKEW.P(number1, [number2], ...)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| number1 | Number |
Yes | First number, array, or reference containing population data points |
| [number2], ... | Number |
No | Optional numbers, arrays, or references (up to 253 more arguments) |
Using the SKEW.P Function
SKEW.P is used in statistical analysis to quantify the asymmetry of population data distributions. Apply it to complete datasets when you have access to every data point, distinguishing it from sample-based skewness calculations.
Common SKEW.P Examples
Basic Population Skewness
=SKEW.P(A2:A11)Calculates skewness for population data in cells A2 through A11, returning approximately 0.303 for the sample dataset showing right skew.
Direct Value Input
=SKEW.P(3,4,5,2,3,4,5,6,4,7)Computes skewness directly from listed population values without cell references.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#NUM!
Cause: Arguments contain invalid numeric values
Solution: Ensure all inputs are valid numbers
#VALUE!
Cause: Non-numeric data types in arguments
Solution: Use numeric values, arrays, or references only
#DIV/0!
Cause: Fewer than 3 data points or zero standard deviation
Solution: Provide at least 3 distinct numeric values
Notes
- Directly typed logical values and numeric text count in calculations
- Array/reference text, logicals, and empty cells ignored (zeros included)
- Available only in Excel 2013 and later versions
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in: Excel 2010, Excel 2007, Excel 2003 and earlier
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2013+