Quick Answer
SIGN Function
Returns 1, 0, or -1 indicating a number's sign.
✓ Excel✓ Google SheetsExcel All versions
Syntax
SIGN
(number)
Parameters
| Parameter | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| number | The real number whose sign you want to determine. | Required |
Basic Example
Sign of a negative number
=SIGN(-7)Result-1
Because -7 is negative, SIGN returns -1.
Advanced Examples
Example 1: Sign of zero
Boundary case.Zero returns 0.
=SIGN(0)Result: 0
Zero is neither positive nor negative, so SIGN returns 0.
Example 2: Sign of a positive number
Standard case.Positive returns 1.
=SIGN(3.14)Result: 1
3.14 is positive, so SIGN returns 1.
How SIGN Works
SIGN evaluates the sign of the input: it returns 1 when number > 0, 0 when number = 0, and -1 when number < 0. It is often combined with other functions to branch logic.
1
Select the cell
Click the cell for the result.
2
Enter the formula
Type =SIGN(number).
3
Press Enter
The sign indicator (1, 0, or -1) appears.
Important Notes & Limitations
SIGN only returns -1, 0, or 1; it does not indicate magnitude.
Non-numeric text returns #VALUE!.
It is not affected by formatting or rounding; only the value's sign matters.
Common Errors & Fixes
#VALUE!Non-numeric argument.Fix: Supply a numeric value.
Download Practice File
SIGN
signPractice SIGN with Real Data
Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the SIGN function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.
Works in Google SheetsCompatible with ExcelIncludes exercises
File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps
Frequently Asked Questions
What does SIGN return for zero?
It returns 0, since zero has no sign.
How is SIGN useful?
It lets you apply different calculations depending on whether a value is positive, zero, or negative, often inside IF or other formulas.
Does SIGN round the number first?
No. SIGN only looks at the sign of the exact value; -0.0001 still returns -1.