TRUNC Function
Truncates a number to an integer or set number of digits (no rounding).
Syntax
Parameters
| Parameter | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| number | The value you want to truncate. | Required |
| num_digits | The number of decimal places to keep. 0 (default) truncates to an integer. | Optional |
Basic Example
Truncate 4.9 to an integer
=TRUNC(4.9)TRUNC removes the fractional part without rounding, so 4.9 becomes 4.
Advanced Examples
Example 1: Negative numbers truncate toward zero
Truncating -4.9.Unlike INT, TRUNC does not round down.
=TRUNC(-4.9)Example 2: Keep two decimal places
Trim pi to 2 decimals.Pass num_digits 2.
=TRUNC(3.14159, 2)How TRUNC Works
TRUNC chops off digits beyond the specified number of decimal places; it does not round. With num_digits = 0 it returns the integer part toward zero. For positive numbers TRUNC and INT give the same result, but for negatives TRUNC moves toward zero while INT moves toward negative infinity.
Important Notes & Limitations
TRUNC only removes digits; it never rounds, which differs from ROUND.
For negative numbers it truncates toward zero, unlike INT which rounds down.
num_digits can be negative, truncating to the left of the decimal point (e.g. TRUNC(1234, -2) = 1200).
Common Errors & Fixes
Result not rounded as expectedTRUNC intentionally does not round.Fix: Use ROUND if you need rounding instead of truncation.
#VALUE!Non-numeric argument.Fix: Supply a numeric value.
Download Practice File
TRUNC
truncPractice TRUNC with Real Data
Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the TRUNC function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.
File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps