SQL Server MIN() Function

The MIN() function in SQL Server is used to find the smallest value in a set of numbers. It's a fundamental aggregate function, used to summarize numerical data.



MIN(): Definition and Usage

MIN() is very useful for identifying the lowest value in a column or the result of a calculation. This is frequently used to find things like the minimum price, smallest quantity, or earliest date in your data. MIN() automatically ignores any NULL values.

Syntax

Syntax

MIN(expression)
      

Parameter Values

Parameter Description
expression A numeric column name, or a formula that results in a numeric value. This is required.

Related Function

For finding the largest value, use the MAX() function.

Example

Finding the Minimum Price

This example finds the lowest price in the 'Price' column of the 'Products' table. (Assumes a table named 'Products' exists with a 'Price' column.)

Syntax

SELECT MIN(Price) AS SmallestPrice FROM Products;
      
Output

SmallestPrice
-------------
(The lowest price in the Products table will be shown here.)
      

**Note:** The example output will vary based on the data in your `Products` table. If the table is empty or contains only `NULL` values in the `Price` column, the output will be `NULL`.