In this article
MODE returns the most frequent number. It is a compatibility function: Excel keeps it so workbooks from Excel 2007 and earlier still calculate, but Microsoft recommends MODE.SNGL for new work. Both give the same result.
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Syntax
=MODE(number1, ...)| Argument | What it means |
|---|---|
number1… |
Values |
Examples
Example 1
=MODE(INDEX({7,8,8,6,7,7,9},SEQUENCE(A2)))Result: 8. See the worked example table below for more cases.
💡 For new workbooks use MODE.SNGL: it gives the same answer and is the name Microsoft keeps documenting.
MODE in practice
Where you will use it
- Opening and checking older workbooks that use MODE
- Understanding formulas shared by colleagues on older Excel versions
- Knowing when to swap in MODE.SNGL for clarity
Worked example
| Rows used | Formula | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | =MODE(INDEX({7,8,8,6,7,7,9},SEQUENCE(A2))) | 8 |
| 5 | =MODE(INDEX({7,8,8,6,7,7,9},SEQUENCE(A3))) | 7 |
| 7 | =MODE(INDEX({7,8,8,6,7,7,9},SEQUENCE(A4))) | 7 |
Results calculated in Excel. Same result as MODE.SNGL.
Mistakes people make
| Mistake | What to do instead |
|---|---|
| Using MODE in new files | Prefer MODE.SNGL: same result, clearer name, and the function Microsoft keeps improving |
| Mixing old and new names in one model | Pick one style per workbook so formulas are easy to audit |
Related functions
📚 Part of the free Excel course: Beginner → Expert · Try it in the Formula Lab or ask the AI Helper.
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