How to Use the COVAR Function in WPS on Windows

Last updated:July 17, 2026

Use the COVAR function through 4 how-to topics, including entering the formula, filling parameters, using cross-worksheet references, and building nested calculations; 4 are free and 0 are membership-related.

How-to Index

No.TopicMembership
11. Enter the COVAR functionFree
22. Fill in parameters and calculateFree
33. Use cross-worksheet referencesFree
44. Build a nested calculationFree

How-to Guide

1. Enter the COVAR function

Entry path: Formulas tab → formula bar

  1. Open WPS Spreadsheets and select the cell where you want the result.
  2. Type = in the cell or formula bar.
  3. Type COVAR(.
  4. Review the syntax prompt before continuing.

Success Criteria

  • The cell enters formula editing mode and shows the COVAR syntax prompt.
  • You can continue entering parameters.

Tips While Using

  • If you do not start with =, the content is treated as plain text.

2. Fill in parameters and calculate

Entry path: Formula bar

  1. Enter the first data range after COVAR(.
  2. Type a comma and enter the second data range.
  3. Check that the closing parenthesis is complete.
  4. Press Enter to return the result.

Success Criteria

  • The target cell displays a calculated result.
  • You can copy the formula or edit the ranges further.

Tips While Using

  • Incorrect parameter counts or missing parentheses can return an error.

3. Use cross-worksheet references

Entry path: Formula bar → select ranges from another worksheet

  1. Type =COVAR( in the target cell.
  2. Switch to another worksheet and select the first data range.
  3. Enter the separator, then select the second range.
  4. Press Enter to complete the calculation.

Success Criteria

  • The formula includes worksheet names and cell range references.
  • The result updates when source data changes.

Tips While Using

  • If the two ranges do not align correctly, the formula may return an error value.

4. Build a nested calculation

Entry path: Formula bar

  1. Enter a larger formula that includes COVAR.
  2. Add other statistical or logical functions around it as needed.
  3. Check the order of parameters and parentheses.
  4. Press Enter to view the final result.

Success Criteria

  • The cell returns the result of the nested formula.
  • You can continue editing the outer formula if needed.

Tips While Using

  • When the formula is complex, test COVAR alone first before nesting it.