Need a quick way to round numbers up to the nearest even integer? The Excel EVEN function 🔢 does just that! It’s a built-in function that rounds any number (positive or negative) away from zero to the next even integer. Whether you’re working on Windows, macOS, or Ubuntu, this handy function can streamline calculations in engineering, budgeting, and scheduling. 💡✅
In this guide, you’ll learn how to use the EVEN function, explore real-life examples, and apply keyboard shortcuts to work smarter and faster in Excel.
📘 What Does the EVEN Function Do?
Syntax:
=EVEN(number)
- number – The numeric value to round.
The function returns the next even number that is greater than or equal to the number if it’s positive, or less than or equal to the number if it’s negative.
🔍 EVEN Function Examples
| Input | Formula | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | =EVEN(3) | 4 |
| 7.2 | =EVEN(7.2) | 8 |
| -2.5 | =EVEN(-2.5) | -4 |
| 0 | =EVEN(0) | 0 |
🧠 Use this when you want to align data to even values, especially for tasks that require step-wise increments or even distribution.
🧠 Use Cases for the EVEN Function
| Scenario | How EVEN Helps |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing batch processing | Rounds units to the next even count |
| Financial rounding or budgeting | Ensures allocations are in even numbers |
| Scheduling or ticketing systems | Makes sure events start on even slots |
| Grid-based designs or models | Aligns elements evenly for layout symmetry |
⌨️ Excel Shortcuts for Efficient EVEN Usage
| Action | Windows/Linux | macOS |
|---|---|---|
| Start formula input | = | = |
| Enter formula | Enter | Return |
| Use autocomplete for EVEN | Type EVEN + Tab | Type EVEN + Tab |
| Copy formula down | Ctrl + D | Cmd + D |
| Open function tooltip | Shift + F3 | Fn + Shift + F3 |
📌 After typing =EVEN(, Excel will suggest the formula—just hit Tab to complete it.
❗ Things to Keep in Mind
- Decimals get rounded up to the next even number.
- Negative numbers round away from zero (e.g., -3.7 → -4).
- Returns
#VALUE!if the input is non-numeric.
✅ If you need to round toward zero, consider using INT() or ROUNDDOWN() instead.
📱 Using EVEN in Excel Online or Mobile
The EVEN function works flawlessly across all Excel platforms:
| Platform | Supported? |
|---|---|
| Excel for Windows | ✅ Yes |
| Excel for Mac | ✅ Yes |
| Excel Online | ✅ Yes |
| Excel Mobile (iOS/Android) | ✅ Yes |
📲 Just type the formula manually or select it from the formula list on mobile devices.
💬 FAQs About Excel EVEN Function
What does the EVEN function do in Excel?
It rounds a number up (away from zero) to the nearest even integer.
What’s the difference between EVEN and ROUND?EVEN rounds to the next even number; ROUND rounds based on decimal places.
Can I use EVEN on negative numbers?
Yes, but it always rounds away from zero, so =EVEN(-3.5) gives -4.
How do I combine EVEN with other functions?
Use it with IF, ABS, or MOD for complex conditional calculations.
Is EVEN supported on Excel for Linux or Ubuntu?
Yes — via Excel for Web or using Excel in Wine/VM environments.
Does EVEN round 0 up?
No — =EVEN(0) returns 0 since 0 is already even.
🟢 Final Thoughts: Excel EVEN Function
The Excel EVEN function is a deceptively simple yet powerful tool for rounding numbers to the nearest even integer. Whether you’re optimizing layout grids, managing inventory, or working with time intervals, EVEN() helps maintain structure and balance in your data. Best of all, it’s easy to remember, fast to apply, and works across all major platforms.
Complete List of Windows Keyboard Shortcuts
If you need help for Windows, you can find a whole list of all keyboard shortcuts here.
https://keyboard-shortcuts.org/
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