The MAX function (which stands for maximum) will return the highest value in the selected range of cells. MAX functions do not include blank or text entries into the calculations. The syntax for the MAX function is:

=MAX(first value, second value, etc.)

For instance, if we have the following data set given above, the MAX function for the set of scores from Test 1 would be:

=MAX(B4:B9)

To perform an MAX function like the example above, follow the steps below:

• Click in the cell that you want the MAX to be performed (in the above example that will be cell B10).
• Click on the fx button (function button) in the top toolbar.
• Select the Statistical category and click on MAX in the Function name area.

• Click on the OK button.
• Excel will automatically assume you want to average a certain row of cells or columns. If this is the row or column you want averaged, click the OK button. If not, click and drag across the cells you want to include in the average and click OK.

• The MAX score of the range of cells should now appear in the designated cell (in this example "99" is shown in cell B10).