MySQL SIGN() Function

The SIGN() function in MySQL determines the sign of a number and returns a value indicating whether the number is positive, negative, or zero.

SIGN(): Definition and Usage

This function is a simple yet useful mathematical function. It's often used in conditional logic or calculations where you need to know the sign of a value without needing the actual magnitude.

Return Values

The SIGN() function returns:

• 1 if the number is positive
• 0 if the number is zero
• -1 if the number is negative

Syntax

SIGN(number)
      

Parameter Values

Examples

Determining the Sign of a Positive Number

This example shows how SIGN() returns 1 for a positive number.

SELECT SIGN(255.5);
      

1
      

Determining the Sign of a Negative Number

Here, SIGN() correctly identifies a negative number and returns -1.

SELECT SIGN(-12);
      

-1