The Excel LARGE function is a Statistical formula that returns largest value in an array or a range. In this guide, we’re going to show you how to use LARGE function and also go over some tips and error handling methods.


Supported versions

  • All Excel versions

Excel LARGE Function Syntax

LARGE(array, k)


Arguments

array

An array of numbers you want to return the k-th largest value from.

k

An integer that specifies the position from the largest value.



Examples

Largest k-th number

=LARGE(Speed,5)
formula demonstrates how you can find the largest number in a range. The formula returns the 5th largest number (i.e. 90) from the selected range. For recurring values, all cells will be considered by the function. For example, if you sort the numbers from this example, you will get {120; 100; 100; 90; 90; …}. Although, 90 is the 3rd largest number, the Excel LARGE function counts both cells countaining 100.

Largest k-th date/time

Since Excel treats date and time values as numbers, the Excel LARGE function can also find the k-th greatest date/time value from an array.

=LARGE(ReleaseDate,5)

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Summary and Tips

  • Use the Excel LARGE function to determine the k-th largest value in an array or range.
  • The LARGE function can work with arrays/ranges, including date/time values.
  • =LARGE(array,1) returns the largest value.The MAX function works the same way.
  • See the SMALL function to find the k-th smallest value from an array.

Issues

  • If an array is empty, or k does not point to a valid k value, the Excel LARGE function returns a #NUM! error.