ROUND Function: syntax, examples, mistakes and translation notes
Rounds a number to a specified number of digits.
Syntax
=ROUND(number, num_digits)
Arguments
number
Value to round.
num_digits
Digits after the decimal when positive; places to the left when negative.
Worked examples
=ROUND(12.3456,2)
Returns 12.35.
=ROUND(1267,-2)
Rounds to the nearest hundred.
Practical tips
- Round at the presentation/business-rule point, not repeatedly through intermediate calculations unless required.
- Negative num_digits rounds to tens, hundreds and beyond.
- Use ROUNDUP/ROUNDDOWN when direction must be controlled.
Common mistakes
- Assuming cell display formatting changes the stored calculation value.
- Rounding intermediate financial values inconsistently with the required business rule.
Related functions
Frequently asked questions
What does ROUND do?
Rounds a number to a specified number of digits.
Why might a ROUND formula return an unexpected result?
Assuming cell display formatting changes the stored calculation value. Start by testing the smallest referenced range or condition independently before adding wrappers or fallbacks.
Check the complete formula
Function syntax is only one part of a working workbook. Paste the finished expression into the Formula Checker for structural warnings, the Formatter for readability or the Translator when a supported locale mapping is involved.
Testing note: examples are educational. Spreadsheet versions, locale settings, tables, named ranges and workbook data can change behavior, so validate important formulas with representative data.