Statistical

COVARIANCE.P Function in Excel

Returns population covariance between two data sets.

Syntax

  • =COVARIANCE.P(array1, array2)

Arguments

  • array1 (required): First range of values
  • array2 (required): Second range of values

Examples

  • =COVARIANCE.P(A1:A100, B1:B100) - Population covariance - Result: Covariance value

COVARIANCE.P for data analysis

  • Confirm whether you need entire columns, filtered subsets, or distinct values.
  • Use [COUNTIFS](/functions/countifs/) and [SUMIFS](/functions/sumifs/) for multi-criteria metrics.
  • Pivot tables complement single-cell statistical formulas for exploration.

Common errors

  • Arrays must be same size

Use cases

  • Portfolio analysis
  • Risk assessment
  • Statistical analysis

Frequently asked questions

  • What is the COVARIANCE.P function in Excel? COVARIANCE.P returns population covariance between two data sets. The syntax is =COVARIANCE.P(array1, array2). Typical use cases include portfolio analysis, risk assessment, statistical analysis.
  • How do I use the COVARIANCE.P function? To use COVARIANCE.P, type =COVARIANCE.P( in a cell and provide the required arguments. Excel will show you the syntax and parameter hints as you type. Make sure to close the parentheses and press Enter to execute the function.
  • What type of data does COVARIANCE.P work with? COVARIANCE.P works with numerical data and can handle ranges, arrays, and individual values. It ignores text values and empty cells in its calculations, focusing only on numeric data for accurate statistical analysis.
  • Why is COVARIANCE.P not working in my Excel? Common issues with COVARIANCE.P include Arrays must be same size. Start by checking the syntax =COVARIANCE.P(array1, array2), then verify each referenced cell or range.

Editorial review

  • Reviewed by Excel.Directory Editorial Team. Updated May 2026.