Syntax
SLOPE(known_y, known_x)
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| known_y | Parameter of the SLOPE function. |
| known_x | Parameter of the SLOPE function. |
Examples
Revenue growth rate
Formula
=SLOPE(B2:B13, A2:A13)
If B contains monthly revenue and A contains month numbers (1-12), returns the average monthly revenue increase. A slope of 5000 means revenue grows ~$5,000/month.
Cost per unit
Formula
=SLOPE(C2:C50, D2:D50)
If C is total cost and D is units produced, the slope represents the marginal cost per additional unit.
Negative trend
Formula
=SLOPE(E2:E365, ROW(E2:E365))
A negative slope indicates a declining trend — values are decreasing over time.
Common Errors
#N/A
The arrays have different numbers of data points. Known_y and known_x must be the same length.
#DIV/0!
All x-values are identical (zero variance in x). A vertical line has undefined slope.
Tips
Argument order matters
SLOPE(y, x) — the dependent variable (y) comes first, then the independent variable (x). Getting them reversed gives the reciprocal of the correct slope.
Use with INTERCEPT for the full equation
The regression line is y = SLOPE*x + INTERCEPT. With both values, you can predict y for any x value.
Check RSQ first
A slope is meaningless if the relationship is weak. Check RSQ(y,x) first — if it is low (below 0.5), the slope may not be a reliable predictor.
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