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VARA Function

Excel 2007+

Summary

The VARA function calculates sample variance from a dataset, uniquely including logical values (TRUE/FALSE) and text representations of numbers in the computation. Unlike standard variance functions, VARA treats TRUE as 1 and FALSE/text as 0, providing more comprehensive statistical analysis of mixed data types.

Syntax

VARA(value1, [value2], ...)

Parameters

Parameter	Type	Required	Description
value1	`Any`	Yes	Required first value, array, or reference containing the sample data
value2	`Any`	No	Optional additional values, arrays, or references (up to 254 more arguments)

Using the VARA Function

VARA is essential for statistical analysis when working with datasets containing logical values or text numbers. Use it when you need to include TRUE/FALSE values in variance calculations, such as analyzing survey responses, quality control data with pass/fail indicators, or any mixed data type requiring sample variance.

Common VARA Examples

Basic Sample Variance

=VARA(A2:A11)

Calculates variance for tool breaking strength data (result: 754.27). Assumes sample data.

Mixed Data Types

=VARA(10, TRUE, "5", FALSE, 15)

Calculates variance treating TRUE=1, "5"=5, FALSE=0 (includes text numbers and logicals).

Survey Analysis

=VARA(B2:B10)

Analyzes response times including "N/A" text (treated as 0) and TRUE/FALSE completion flags.

Frequently Asked Questions

VARA includes logical values (TRUE/FALSE) and text numbers in references, while VAR ignores them.

Use VARA for sample data, VARPA for entire population data. VARA divides by n-1, VARPA by n.

Yes, VARA processes arrays and cell ranges, ignoring only empty cells within references.

Common Errors and Solutions

#VALUE! error

Cause: Arguments contain text that can't convert to numbers or error values

Solution: Remove or fix error values, ensure text arguments are numeric

#DIV/0! error

Cause: Only one numeric value provided (variance undefined)

Solution: Provide at least two numeric values for sample variance

Notes

VARA assumes sample data (divides by n-1)
Use VARPA for population data (divides by n)
Empty cells in ranges are ignored
Directly entered TRUE=1, FALSE/text=0
Maximum 255 arguments total

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+