Syntax
RANK(number, ref, [order])
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| number | Parameter of the RANK function. |
| ref | Parameter of the RANK function. |
| [order] | (Optional.) Parameter of the RANK function. |
Examples
Sales ranking
Formula
=RANK(B5, $B$2:$B$50)
Returns the rank of the salesperson in row 5 among all 49 salespeople. The highest revenue gets rank 1.
Ascending rank (lowest first)
Formula
=RANK(C3, $C$2:$C$100, 1)
Ranks with the smallest value as #1. Useful for metrics where lower is better, like response times or defect counts.
Rank across a row
Formula
=RANK(B2, $B$2:$F$2)
Ranks a value among values in a single row, useful for comparing metrics across multiple periods.
Common Errors
#N/A
The number being ranked is not found in the reference range. The value must exist in the range.
#VALUE!
Non-numeric arguments were provided.
Tips
Use absolute references for the range
When dragging the formula down, use $ signs on the range ($B$2:$B$50) so it doesn't shift. Only the first argument (the cell being ranked) should change.
Ties skip ranks
If two values tie at rank 3, the next value gets rank 5 (rank 4 is skipped). Use RANK.AVG if you want tied values to share an averaged rank instead.
Modern alternative: RANK.EQ
RANK and RANK.EQ are identical. RANK.EQ is the newer name that distinguishes it from RANK.AVG for handling ties.
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