Change of Base Log Formula

Returns the logarithm of number to the given base. If base is omitted, it is assumed to be 10.

Syntax

Formula structure

Source: Quadratic docs
=LOG(number, [base])
number
Required: Yes

Required argument used by the LOG formula.

[base]
Required: No

Optional argument used by the LOG formula.

Examples for the change of base log formula

Copy these examples into a spreadsheet and adjust the ranges for your own data.

LOG syntax pattern

=LOG(number, [base])

Use this LOG pattern as the starting point for your spreadsheet formula.

LOG in a worksheet

=LOG(A2, [base])

Returns the logarithm of number to the given base. If base is omitted, it is assumed to be 10.

When to use LOG

Use LOG when you need to return the logarithm of number to the given base. LOG if base is omitted, it is assumed to be 10.

  • Build totals, rounded metrics, and numeric calculations.
  • Clean up numeric inputs before analysis.

How LOG works in Quadratic

In Quadratic, LOG follows the syntax LOG(number, [base]). The function works inside Quadratic formulas and can be combined with spreadsheet ranges, tables, and other formulas.

Common LOG mistakes

Most LOG issues come from mismatched argument types, ranges that do not cover the intended data, or optional parameters being omitted when the default behavior is not what you expected.

  • Check each required parameter before copying the formula across a sheet.
  • Confirm that ranges line up with the rows or columns you intend to analyze.
  • Use Quadratic AI to explain or debug the formula when the result looks wrong.

Related formulas

LOG formula FAQ

What does the change of base log formula do?

LOG returns the logarithm of number to the given base. If base is omitted, it is assumed to be 10.

What is the syntax for LOG?

The syntax is LOG(number, [base]). Required and optional parameters are listed at the top of this guide.

Can Quadratic AI help with LOG?

Yes. Quadratic AI can write a LOG formula, explain existing formula logic, or help debug broken references and unexpected results.

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Spreadsheet formulas are powerful, but they get painful fast. A LOG formula can start simple, then turn into logic that is hard to understand, easy to break, and difficult to share with the rest of your team.

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Why formulas slow teams down

  • Long formulas become hard to read, understand, and trust.
  • Formula logic breaks when rows, columns, or assumptions change.
  • Manual updates make dashboards and reports fragile over time.
  • Complex formulas are difficult to explain, review, and share with teammates.
  • Advanced analysis quickly outgrows formula-only workflows.