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LCM

The LCM function in Google Sheets calculates the least common multiple (LCM) of two or more numbers. The LCM is the smallest positive integer that is a multiple of every number in the input set. This function is commonly used in mathematical computations and in finding the lowest common denominator when adding or subtracting fractions.

Usage

Use the LCM formula with the syntax shown below, it has 2 required parameters:

=LCM(value1, value2)
Parameters:
  1. value1 (required):
    The first value or range of values for which you want to calculate the LCM.
  2. value2 (required):
    The second value or range of values for which you want to calculate the LCM.

Examples

Here are a few example use cases that explain how to use the LCM formula in Google Sheets.

Calculating the LCM of two numbers

You can use the LCM function to find the LCM of two numbers. For example, to find the LCM of 12 and 18, you would use the formula =LCM(12, 18), which returns the value 36.

Calculating the LCM of a range of numbers

You can use the LCM function with a range of numbers to find the LCM of all the numbers in the range. For example, to find the LCM of the numbers 2, 4, and 8, you would use the formula =LCM(A1:A3), where A1:A3 contains the values 2, 4, and 8. This returns the value 8.

Finding the lowest common denominator of fractions

To add or subtract fractions with different denominators, you need to find the lowest common denominator (LCD). You can use the LCM function to find the LCD. For example, to add the fractions 1/3 and 1/6, you would first find the LCD, which is 6, using the formula =LCM(3, 6). You would then convert each fraction to have a denominator of 6, giving you 2/6 and 1/6, which can be added together to get 3/6 or 1/2.

Common Mistakes

LCM not working? Here are some common mistakes people make when using the LCM Google Sheets Formula:

Incorrect range format

One common mistake is to input the range of values incorrectly. The range should be in the format 'A1:A10' for example. Make sure to include the colon and use the correct column and row references.

Not enough arguments

Another common mistake is to not provide enough arguments. The LCM formula requires at least two values to find the least common multiple. Make sure to include all necessary arguments.

Non-numeric values

The LCM formula only works with numeric values. If you include non-numeric values, the formula will result in an error. Make sure all values are numeric or use the ISNUMBER function to check.

Zero or negative values

If any of the values provided are zero or negative, the LCM formula will result in an error. Make sure all values are positive and greater than zero.

Incorrect function name or spelling

Double-check that you have spelled the function name correctly and that you are using the correct function name. If you are still having trouble, try looking up examples of the function being used or consult the Google Sheets documentation.

Related Formulas

The following functions are similar to LCM or are often used with it in a formula:

  • GCD

    The GCD formula returns the greatest common divisor of two or more integers. It is often used in mathematical calculations to find the highest number that divides evenly into two or more numbers. The GCD formula is part of the Math functions in Google Sheets.

  • PRODUCT

    The PRODUCT formula in Google Sheets multiplies all the numbers given in the arguments and returns the product. It is commonly used to calculate the total product of a range of cells.

  • SUM

    The SUM function in Google Sheets adds up a range of numbers. This function is most commonly used to sum the values in a range of cells.

  • QUOTIENT

    The QUOTIENT formula in Google Sheets returns the integer portion of a division operation. It takes two parameters, the dividend and the divisor. The formula divides the dividend by the divisor and returns the quotient without the remainder.

Learn More

You can learn more about the LCM Google Sheets function on Google Support.