What is the syntax for DECIMAL in Excel?

The syntax for DECIMAL is: =DECIMAL(text, radix)

How do I use the DECIMAL function?

To use DECIMAL, type =DECIMAL( 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 happens if DECIMAL encounters errors?

If DECIMAL encounters invalid arguments or calculation errors, it may return error values like #VALUE!, #NUM!, or #DIV/0!. Check your input values and ensure they meet the function's requirements.

Why is DECIMAL not working in my Excel?

Common issues with DECIMAL include #NUM! if radix not 2-36. Start by checking the syntax =DECIMAL(text, radix), then verify each referenced cell or range.

Math & Trig

DECIMAL Function in Excel

Converts a text representation of a number in a given base into a decimal number.

Syntax

=DECIMAL(text, radix)

Arguments

text (required): Text representation
radix (required): Base (2-36)

Examples

=DECIMAL("FF", 16) - Hex to decimal - Result: 255
=DECIMAL("1010", 2) - Binary to decimal - Result: 10

DECIMAL in reporting workflows

Use absolute references when copying formulas across rows.
For conditional totals see [SUMIF](/functions/sumif/) and [SUMIFS](/functions/sumifs/).
Filtered lists may need [SUBTOTAL](/functions/subtotal/) instead of SUM on visible cells only.

Common errors

#NUM! if radix not 2-36

Use cases

Number conversion
Programming
Data processing

Frequently asked questions

What is the DECIMAL function in Excel? DECIMAL converts a text representation of a number in a given base into a decimal number. The syntax is =DECIMAL(text, radix). Typical use cases include number conversion, programming, data processing.
How do I use the DECIMAL function? To use DECIMAL, type =DECIMAL( 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 happens if DECIMAL encounters errors? If DECIMAL encounters invalid arguments or calculation errors, it may return error values like #VALUE!, #NUM!, or #DIV/0!. Check your input values and ensure they meet the function's requirements.
Why is DECIMAL not working in my Excel? Common issues with DECIMAL include #NUM! if radix not 2-36. Start by checking the syntax =DECIMAL(text, radix), then verify each referenced cell or range.

Editorial review

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