What is the syntax for TRUNC in Excel?

The syntax for TRUNC is: =TRUNC(number, [num_digits])

What are common errors with TRUNC?

Different from INT for negative numbers

When should I use TRUNC instead of ROUND?

Use TRUNC when you want to simply cut off decimals without rounding. ROUND(2.7, 0)=3, TRUNC(2.7)=2. TRUNC is useful for extracting whole units (like complete hours from decimal hours) without rounding up.

Can TRUNC keep decimal places?

Yes! The second argument specifies decimals to keep: =TRUNC(3.14159, 2) returns 3.14. Use negative numbers to truncate before the decimal: =TRUNC(1234, -2) returns 1200.

Math & Trig

TRUNC Function in Excel

Truncates a number to an integer by removing the decimal part.

Syntax

=TRUNC(number, [num_digits])

Arguments

number (required): The number to truncate
num_digits (optional): Number of decimal places to keep (default 0)

Examples

=TRUNC(8.9) - Truncate to integer - Result: 8
=TRUNC(-8.9) - Truncate negative - Result: -8
=TRUNC(3.14159, 2) - Keep 2 decimals - Result: 3.14

TRUNC 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

Different from INT for negative numbers

Use cases

Remove decimals
Data cleaning
Integer extraction

Frequently asked questions

When should I use TRUNC instead of ROUND? Use TRUNC when you want to simply cut off decimals without rounding. ROUND(2.7, 0)=3, TRUNC(2.7)=2. TRUNC is useful for extracting whole units (like complete hours from decimal hours) without rounding up.
Can TRUNC keep decimal places? Yes! The second argument specifies decimals to keep: =TRUNC(3.14159, 2) returns 3.14. Use negative numbers to truncate before the decimal: =TRUNC(1234, -2) returns 1200.

Editorial review

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