How to Use the SMALL Function in WPS on Windows

Last updated:July 23, 2026

Use the SMALL function in 3 topics: enter the SMALL formula, set the range and rank parameters, and reuse the result in a worksheet; choose a topic from the index and follow the steps.

How-to Index

No.TopicMembership Requirement
11. Enter the SMALL formulaFree
22. Set the data range and rank parameterFree
33. Reuse the SMALL result in a worksheetFree

How-to Guide

1. Enter the SMALL formula

Entry point: the target cell in a worksheet

  1. Open WPS Office and go to the spreadsheet where you want to calculate a result.
  2. Click the cell where you want the result to appear.
  3. Type an equal sign and then enter SMALL.
  4. Type the opening parenthesis to prepare for the arguments.
  5. Check the spelling before you press Enter.

Success Criteria

  • Interface result: The target cell enters formula editing mode.
  • Next action available: You can continue entering the data range and rank parameter.

Tips While Using

  • Common mistake: If you do not type the equal sign first, the content may be treated as plain text.

2. Set the data range and rank parameter

Entry point: a cell in formula editing mode

  1. After SMALL(, enter the target data range, such as A2:A10.
  2. Type a comma to separate the arguments.
  3. Enter the rank number to return, such as 2 for the 2nd smallest value.
  4. Type the closing parenthesis to complete the formula, such as =SMALL(A2:A10,2).
  5. Press Enter to confirm the result.

Success Criteria

  • Interface result: The cell displays a calculated result.
  • Next action available: You can change the range or rank and calculate again.

Tips While Using

  • Common mistake: If the rank number is larger than the number of valid values, the result may not return normally.
  • Environment note: A numeric range is recommended for more accurate results.

3. Reuse the SMALL result in a worksheet

Entry point: a cell that already contains a SMALL formula

  1. Select the cell that already contains the SMALL formula.
  2. Move the pointer to the fill handle.
  3. Drag down or across to copy the formula to other cells.
  4. Adjust the referenced range or rank parameter if needed.
  5. Check whether each copied result matches your expectation.

Success Criteria

  • Interface result: Other cells show corresponding formula results.
  • Next action available: You can continue combining the result with other formulas.
  • No side effect: The original data range is not overwritten by copying the formula.

Tips While Using

  • Common mistake: After copying the formula, not checking the updated references can shift the result range.