How it works.
RANK calculates the position rank of a specific number within an array of numbers. Retained for backward compatibility with workbooks created prior to Excel 2010 (modern workbooks use RANK.EQ).
Formula syntax.
Standard Excel Notation=RANK(number, ref, [order])[like_this] are optional; all other arguments are required.Formula arguments.
Every parameter accepted by the RANK function is detailed below.
The value whose rank you want to find.
Example value:B2The cohort range to rank against.
Example value:$B$2:$B$50 = Descending (largest is #1, default), 1 = Ascending.
Default: 0Simple example.
Step-by-Step ScenarioClass Exam - Student Ranking
Rank student scores from highest to lowest.
| Student | Exam Score | Class Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Emma | 95 | — |
| Liam | 82 | — |
| Noah | 88 | — |
=RANK(B2, $B$2:$B$5, 0)Evaluates RANK over the sample table cells, placing the verified output in cell C2.
Formula generator.
Full Generator WizardCustomize the argument fields below to generate a tailored RANK formula ready to paste directly into your worksheet.
=RANK()Expected result behavior.
Returns number 1 based on sample evaluation criteria and active cell references.
Best Practices
- Lock the ref range ($B$2:$B$5) with dollar signs before copying down a column.
Common Mistakes
- Tied numbers receive identical ranks and skip subsequent ranks (e.g. two #2s are followed by #4).
Platform & version compatibility.
Verified platform compatibility matrix based on actual spreadsheet calculation engine specifications.
Core standard function supported across all modern and legacy Microsoft Excel versions (365, 2021, 2019, 2016, 2013, 2010), as well as Excel for the Web and Mac.
100% compatible with Google Sheets. Uses identical argument order, data types, and standard calculation logic.
Frequently asked questions.
Technical Q&ACan I use RANK across different worksheets in Excel?↓
Yes. You can reference cells located on other sheets by including the sheet name followed by an exclamation mark, for example: =RANK(Sheet2!A2:A10). If the sheet name contains spaces, enclose it in single quotes: ='Q1 Report'!A2:A10.
What is the most common reason for errors in RANK?↓
Tied numbers receive identical ranks and skip subsequent ranks (e.g. two #2s are followed by #4).
Does RANK work identically in Google Sheets?↓
Yes, RANK is supported in both Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets with standard evaluation behavior.