What is the syntax for SECH in Excel?

The syntax for SECH is: =SECH(number)

How do I use the SECH function?

To use SECH, type =SECH( 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 SECH encounters errors?

If SECH 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 SECH not working in my Excel?

Common issues with SECH include Works with any real number. Start by checking the syntax =SECH(number), then verify each referenced cell or range.

Math & Trig

SECH Function in Excel

Returns the hyperbolic secant of a number.

Syntax

=SECH(number)

Arguments

number (required): Any real number

Examples

=SECH(1) - Hyperbolic secant of 1 - Result: 0.648

SECH 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

Works with any real number

Use cases

Engineering
Physics
Mathematics

Frequently asked questions

What is the SECH function in Excel? SECH returns the hyperbolic secant of a number. The syntax is =SECH(number). Typical use cases include engineering, physics, mathematics.
How do I use the SECH function? To use SECH, type =SECH( 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 SECH encounters errors? If SECH 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 SECH not working in my Excel? Common issues with SECH include Works with any real number. Start by checking the syntax =SECH(number), then verify each referenced cell or range.

Editorial review

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