ROLLING_AVERAGE

Calculate the rolling average of a range of values

Formula definition

=IFERROR(AVERAGE(OFFSET(reference_cell, (1-n_periods), 0, n_periods, 1)),"N/A")

Function Details

This function calculates the rolling average of a range of values over a specified number of periods. It is useful for analyzing trends, smoothing out fluctuations, or identifying patterns in data. To use the rolling average formula, input the number of periods you want to average (n_periods) and identify the starting reference cell in your data column (reference_cell). For example, if you want a 5-period rolling average and your data starts from cell A1, place the formula =ROLLING_AVERAGE(A1, 5) in cell B6. This formula will dynamically select the last 5 rows from the current position in column A, including the current row and the four previous ones. Drag this formula down column B to continuously calculate the rolling average as new data is entered into column A.

Function name: ROLLING_AVERAGE

Function description: Calculate the rolling average of a range of values

Argument placeholders: reference_cell, n_periods

Formula definition: =IFERROR(AVERAGE(OFFSET(reference_cell, (1-n_periods), 0, n_periods, 1)),"N/A")

Argument description (reference_cell): The starting reference cell for the rolling average calculation.

Argument example (reference_cell): A2

Argument description (n_periods): The number of periods to include in the rolling average calculation.

Argument example (n_periods): 5

What is a Named Function in Google Sheets?

Named functions enable the creation of custom, reusable formulas that mimic built-in functions, streamlining calculations and data manipulations. These functions simplify complex formulas, making spreadsheets more readable and less prone to errors. By encapsulating intricate logic within a single function call, they enhance consistency across your data. Utilizing named functions reduces the need to write lengthy formulas repeatedly, thereby improving workflow efficiency and productivity in data analysis and management.

How to Add This Function to Google Sheets (Easy Download & Import)

Follow these simple steps to download and import the function into your spreadsheet. This method is the quickest and easiest way to add the named function to your Google Sheets document, but will not include the argument description and examples:

Download the Formula: Click on the download button at the top of this page to download a file with the formula.
Open Google Sheets: Open your Google Sheets document, from the top menu select Data > Named functions. Click Import function.
Import the function: Select Upload and select the file you downloaded with the function. Click Import all or select which function(s) to import and click Import.

Once added, the function will be ready to use in your document like any other built-in function. Simply type the function name and provide the required inputs to use it in your calculations.

How to Add This Function to Google Sheets (Manual)

Follow these simple steps to integrate the function into your spreadsheet:

Open Google Sheets: Open your Google Sheets document, from the top menu select Data > Named functions. Click Add new function.
Copy the Formula: For each input copy and paste the information from above.
- Copy the name of the function to the Function name input.
- Copy the description of the function to the Function description input.
- Copy each placeholder one at a time into the Argument placeholders input, if there are any placeholdes.
- Copy the formula of the function to the Formula definition input.
Click Next.
Add additional details: Optionally you can add a description and example for the placeholders.
Save the function: Click Create to add the function to your document.

Once added, the function will be ready to use in your document like any other built-in function. Simply type the function name and provide the required inputs to use it in your calculations.