How to Use the DSTDEV Function in WPS on Windows

This how-to guide includes 4 operation topics for using DSTDEV in WPS Spreadsheet on Windows; all 4 are available without membership and 0 are membership-related.

How-to Index

How-to Guide

1. Enter the DSTDEV function

Entry point: Formula tab → formula bar

1. Open WPS Spreadsheet and select the cell where you want the result to appear.
2. Type = to start a formula.
3. Type DSTDEV(.
4. Review the syntax prompt that appears while you edit the formula.

Success Criteria

• The selected cell is in formula editing mode.
• The formula starts with DSTDEV(.
• You can continue entering arguments.

Tips While Using

• Start the formula with =.
• For longer formulas, use the formula bar so the full expression is easier to review.

2. Fill in the arguments by syntax

Entry point: Formula bar or cell editing area

1. Enter the database range after DSTDEV(.
2. Type a comma and enter the field argument.
3. Type another comma and enter the criteria range.
4. Check that the parentheses are complete.
5. Press Enter to calculate the result.

Success Criteria

• The formula syntax is complete.
• The cell returns a result instead of a syntax error.

Tips While Using

• Keep the argument order consistent with the function syntax.
• Use the correct separator for your current formula format.

3. Use cross-sheet references

Entry point: Formula bar → select a range on another worksheet

1. Start editing the DSTDEV formula in the result cell.
2. Switch to the worksheet that contains the source data.
3. Select the target data range or criteria range.
4. Return to the formula and confirm that the reference has been inserted.
5. Finish the remaining arguments and confirm the formula.

Success Criteria

• The formula includes a cross-sheet reference.
• The result cell returns a valid value.

Tips While Using

• Make sure each referenced range matches the meaning of its argument.
• When referenced data changes, the result can update accordingly.

4. Check results and recalculate

Entry point: Result cell or formula bar

1. Check whether the result cell returns a numeric value.
2. If the result looks incorrect, review the referenced ranges and data types.
3. Check for missing arguments, unmatched parentheses, or separator errors.
4. Edit the source data and see whether the result updates.
5. If needed, use recalculation to refresh the result.

Success Criteria

• The result matches the current data and criteria.
• The result updates after data changes.

Tips While Using

• Numbers stored as text or circular references can affect the result.
• The syntax prompt can help you locate input issues more quickly.