MDETERM Function in LibreOffice Calc — Tested Examples
An explanation of LibreOffice Calc MDETERM, including tested formulas, examples, expected results and common mistakes.
Tested: Examples checked in LibreOffice Calc 25.2.3.2. What this means
Returns the array determinant. For the matrix with rows [2,1] and [1,3], the determinant is 2×3−1×1=5.
Syntax and arguments
=MDETERM(Array)
LibreOffice Calc formulas generally separate arguments with semicolons (;).
| Argument | Explanation |
|---|---|
Array |
The array for which the determinant is to be determined. |
Worked examples
Reproduce these source cells: Q10=2, R10=1, Q11=1, R11=3. The second test uses Q13=1, R13=2, Q14=3, R14=4.
Example 1: Calculate the determinant of a 2x2 matrix
=MDETERM(Q10:R11)
Expected result: 5. This value was returned in the LibreOffice Calc 25.2 test.
Example 2: Determinant of a different 2 by 2 matrix
=MDETERM(Q13:R14)
Expected result: -2. This value was returned in the LibreOffice Calc 25.2 test.
How to interpret the result
For the matrix with rows [2,1] and [1,3], the determinant is 2×3−1×1=5.
Mistakes and troubleshooting
- Check inputs and assumptions: The input must be square. A determinant of 0 can be mathematically valid and means the matrix is singular.
- Check argument order and format: Strings go in quotes, cell references do not. Functions that return arrays may require special entry.
- Verify your own data: Reproduce the example first. If your formula returns an error, inspect the referenced cells and individual argument values.
Related functions
Tested version and primary reference
2 example(s) on this page passed real calculations in LibreOffice Calc 25.2.3.2. This is not a claim about every possible input or other spreadsheet applications.