You can calculate the coefficient of variation (CV) in Excel by dividing the standard deviation of your data by its mean. Here's how:
Steps to Calculate Coefficient of Variation in Excel:
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Enter Your Data: First, input your data into a column in Excel. For example, enter your data values in cells A1 to A10.
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Calculate the Mean: In an empty cell (e.g., B1), use the AVERAGE function to calculate the mean of your data. The formula will be
=AVERAGE(A1:A10). This formula calculates the average of the data in cells A1 through A10. -
Calculate the Standard Deviation: In another empty cell (e.g., C1), use the STDEV.P function to calculate the population standard deviation. The formula will be
=STDEV.P(A1:A10). If you are working with a sample rather than a population, useSTDEV.S(A1:A10)instead. -
Calculate the Coefficient of Variation: In a final empty cell (e.g., D1), divide the standard deviation (cell C1) by the mean (cell B1). The formula will be
=C1/B1. To express the CV as a percentage, multiply the result by 100:=(C1/B1)*100.
Example
Let's say your data in cells A1 to A5 is: 10, 12, 15, 18, 20
| Cell | Value | Formula/Calculation |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 10 | Data |
| A2 | 12 | Data |
| A3 | 15 | Data |
| A4 | 18 | Data |
| A5 | 20 | Data |
| B1 | 15 | =AVERAGE(A1:A5) |
| C1 | 3.87 | =STDEV.P(A1:A5) |
| D1 | 0.258 | =C1/B1 |
| E1 | 25.8% | =(C1/B1)*100 |
In this example:
- The average is 15.
- The standard deviation is approximately 3.87.
- The coefficient of variation is approximately 0.258 or 25.8%.
In summary, the formula =STDEV.P(your_data_range)/AVERAGE(your_data_range) (or =STDEV.S(your_data_range)/AVERAGE(your_data_range)) provides the coefficient of variation in Excel. Remember to replace your_data_range with the actual range of cells containing your data (e.g., A1:A10). To get the result as a percentage, multiply the entire formula by 100.
