Math
Averaging a list of scores
Definition
Averaging a list of scores means giving AVERAGE the score column so it returns the typical mark.
Syntax
=AVERAGE(number1, [number2], ...)
Arguments
| Argument | Meaning |
|---|---|
number1 |
The column of scores, such as B2:B4. |
number2, ... |
Optional extra scores or ranges that join the same mean. |
Worked example
A coach logs drill scores in B2:B4.
| A: Drill | B: Score |
|---|---|
| Sprint | 40 |
| Jump | 50 |
| Throw | 60 |
Formula: =AVERAGE(B2:B4)
Result: 50. 40 + 50 + 60 is 150, and 150 divided by 3 is 50.
Practice
Cells C2:C4 hold 80, 90, and 70. In D2, write a formula that returns the mean of those scores.
- In D2, write an AVERAGE formula for C2:C4.
- D2 should show the mean of C2:C4.
Step 1 of 2
Enter =AVERAGE(C2:C4) in D2.
(80 + 90 + 70) / 3 is 80.
Formulas here use English function names, such as SUM, and a period as the decimal separator, in every language.
Loading the sheet…
D2 uses AVERAGE.
D2 now shows 80.
The next lesson is Counting only the numeric cells.
Related functions
AVERAGE is the function that returns the typical mark from that list.
Common mistake
Leaving the last score out, as in =AVERAGE(B2:B3): (40 + 50) / 2 is 45, not the mean of all three scores, 50.