The image above shows you a formula in cell D3 that tries to get the smallest number from cell range B3:B12 but it returns an error. This happens if the cell range contains at least one error value.

Formula in cell D3:

The SMALL function ignores text and boolean values but not error values, however, the AGGREGATE function lets you choose between a variety of functions (including SMALL function).

You also have the option to ignore error values, the second argument lets you specify this.

The AGGREGATE function contains these functions AVERAGE, COUNT, COUNTA, MAX, MIN, PRODUCT, STDEV.S, STDEV.P, SUM, VAR.S, VAR.P, MEDIAN, MODE.SNGL, LARGE, SMALL, PERCENTILE.INC, QUARTILE.INC,  PERCENTILE.EXC and QUARTILE.EXC.

You can see a list of available functions while entering the arguments in the function, see image below.

The second argument has the following settings, I chose 6 - Ignore error values.

The AGGREGATE function was introduced in Excel 2010, if you have an earlier Excel version then I recommend using the following array formula:

To enter an array formula, type the formula in a cell then press and hold CTRL + SHIFT simultaneously, now press Enter once. Release all keys.

The formula bar now shows the formula with a beginning and ending curly bracket telling you that you entered the formula successfully. Don't enter the curly brackets yourself.

Get the Excel file

How-to-ignore-error-values-using-the-SMALL-function.xlsx

Small category

SMALL function ignore duplicates
This article demonstrates ways to sort numbers from smallest to largest ignoring duplicate numbers. Table of Contents SMALL function with […]

SMALL function – INDEX MATCH
This article demonstrates how to extract multiple numbers based on a condition and return a sorted list from small to […]

SMALL function with multiple cell ranges
Today I learned how to sort numbers from multiple cell ranges thanks to Sam Miller. It is surprisingly simple and easy. […]

Excel categories

Leave a Comment