The DMIN function with examples in Excel

The DMIN function in Microsoft Excel allows you to find the smallest number in a field (column) of records in a list or database that matches specific conditions. Let’s break down how it works:

1. Syntax:

   • DMIN(database, field, criteria)
     • database: The range of cells that make up the list or database. This represents your dataset.
     • field: Indicates which column you want to analyze. You can use either the column label enclosed in double quotation marks (e.g., “Age” or “Yield”) or a numeric position (1 for the first column, 2 for the second, and so on).
     • criteria: The range of cells containing the conditions you specify. It should include at least one column label and at least one cell below the column label where you define a condition.

2. Example:

   • Let’s say we have the following data:
   Table

   Tree	Height	Age	Yield	Profit
   Apple	18	20	14	$105
   Pear	12	12	10	$96
   Cherry	13	14	9	$105
   Apple	14	15	10	$75
   Pear	9	8	8	$77
   Apple	8	9	6	$45

   • To find the minimum profit of either apple trees between 10 feet and 16 feet in height or any pear tree, use this formula:
     • =DMIN(A5:E11, "Profit", A1:F3)
     • Result: $75

Remember:

• The criteria range can be located anywhere on the worksheet, but avoid placing it below the list.
• If the criteria range overlaps the list, it may cause issues.
• To operate on an entire column, enter a blank line below the column labels in the criteria range.

Feel free to try this out in your Excel worksheet!