What is the syntax for VARA in Excel?

The syntax for VARA is: =VARA(value1, [value2], ...)

What are common errors with VARA?

Text and FALSE evaluate to 0, TRUE to 1

How do I use the VARA function?

To use VARA, type =VARA( 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 VARA work with?

VARA 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 VARA not working in my Excel?

Common issues with VARA include Text and FALSE evaluate to 0, TRUE to 1. Start by checking the syntax =VARA(value1, [value2], ...), then verify each referenced cell or range.

Statistical

VARA Function in Excel

Estimates variance based on a sample, including text and logical values.

Syntax

=VARA(value1, [value2], ...)

Arguments

value1 (required): First value or range
value2 (optional): Additional values or ranges

Examples

=VARA(1, 2, 3, TRUE) - Variance with TRUE (=1) - Result: 0.9167

VARA 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

Text and FALSE evaluate to 0, TRUE to 1

Use cases

Sample variance with mixed data types

Frequently asked questions

What is the VARA function in Excel? VARA estimates variance based on a sample, including text and logical values. The syntax is =VARA(value1, [value2], ...). Typical use cases include sample variance with mixed data types.
How do I use the VARA function? To use VARA, type =VARA( 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 VARA work with? VARA 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 VARA not working in my Excel? Common issues with VARA include Text and FALSE evaluate to 0, TRUE to 1. Start by checking the syntax =VARA(value1, [value2], ...), then verify each referenced cell or range.

Editorial review

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