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LEAST()

Overview

LEAST() (formerly MIN()) returns the smallest value from a list of numbers. This function is useful for finding minimum values, setting lower bounds, and performing comparative analysis. It works with any number of arguments and handles both positive and negative numbers.

Function Format

LEAST(number1 [, number2, number3, ...])

Return Value

LEAST() returns a numeric value

Examples

// Basic minimum value
LEAST(5, 3, 8) = 3

// Negative numbers
LEAST(-5, -3, -8) = -8

// Additional examples
LEAST(10, 10, 10) = 10     // Identical values
LEAST(0, 0, 0) = 0         // Zero values
LEAST(1, 2, 3, 4, 5) = 1   // Sequential numbers
LEAST(100, 200, 300) = 100 // Large numbers

Notes

• Important behaviors:
  • Returns smallest value
  • Works with any number of arguments
  • Handles negative numbers
  • Preserves decimal precision
  • Works with various numeric types
• Common use cases include:
  • Finding minimum values
  • Setting lower bounds
  • Comparative analysis
  • Data validation
  • Range calculations
• The function is useful for:
  • Value comparison
  • Boundary checking
  • Data analysis
  • Range determination
• Important considerations:
  • Requires at least one argument
  • Handles all numeric types
  • Preserves precision
  • Works with null values

See Also

• GREATEST()