How to use formula in conditional formatting?

Conditional Formatting with MIN Formula in Excel

Conditional Formatting with the MIN function helps visually highlight the smallest value(s) in a range. This is useful when comparing performance, finding lowest scores, identifying minimum prices, etc

Objective of the Conditional Formatting in the Image

The goal is to highlight the minimum value in each row across columns B to G (Genpact to Accenture) for every department listed in column A.



How This Formula Works?

MIN($B2:$G2)=B2

This formula checks if the value in cell B2 is equal to the minimum value in the range B2 to G2 (i.e., the entire row for that department).

The dollar signs ($) in $B2:$G2 ensure the row remains fixed while applying the formula across columns.

Conditional Formatting Rule

This formula is applied for each cell in the selected range (B2:G7).

Wherever the cell value matches the minimum value of that row, it gets formatted with a specific fill color (orange).
Real-life Example


How to Apply This Conditional Formatting Rule

Select the data range: B2:G7

Go to Home > Conditional Formatting > New Rule

Choose “Use a formula to determine which cells to format”

Enter the formula

This conditional formatting rule uses the MIN function to dynamically highlight the smallest value across each row in a selected range. The formula =MIN($B2:$G2)=B2 compares each cell to the minimum value in its row. It is particularly useful for visually identifying the least performing or most cost-efficient department/vendor across multiple categories.

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