Formula Basics in Excel
For people just
getting started with Excel, the layout can be a bit intimidating because it is
essentially just a blank grid. But once you learn how to navigate the program
and enter data, you'll want to start manipulating that data. Excel's numerous
functions range from the basics like summing a group of cells or finding a
maximum value to complex functions such as standard deviation or Bessel
functions. To practice working will formulas, start with just a few cells of
data and formulas that represent basic concepts with which you are already
familiar.
Formula Syntax
To
designate a cell as a formula, you must first type an equals sign. Each formula
has its own specific syntax. For example, the "SUM" formula has a
very simple syntax because the only parameter it takes is the cells you want to
add. By comparison, the "ROUND" formula takes two parameters: the
cell you want to round and the number of digits to which you want to round the
number. When you enter a formula, Excel reminds you of the syntax as you type.
Referencing Cells
While
it is possible to compute formulas using only numbers, the real power of Excel
is that you can compute formulas with data from other cells. To reference a
single cell, simply type the name of the cell. For example, B4 or D15. To
reference a range of cells, use a colon between the first and last cell. For
example, B4:D15. You can also list multiple distinct cells by separating them
with commas. For example, B4,B15,E16.
Mathematical Symbols
When
writing formulas, you may find it useful or necessary to include mathematical
symbols. For example, if you want to round the difference of two cells, you can
use the formula, "=ROUND(A4-A5,2)." The use of the subtraction sign
first finds the difference of the two cells before the formula rounds the
difference. Parentheses are beneficial if you need to group certain pieces of
data or if you want to nest formulas.
Using Formulas
To
enter a formula, you can simply start typing the name and then double-click on
the match you want to use. However, if you cannot remember the formula or you
aren't sure if the formula you want exists, click the "Insert
Function" button on the "Formulas" tab. You can either search
for a description of the function or select the category of the formula. When
you find the formula you want to use, select it and click "OK." A
dialog box will prompt you to enter each necessary piece of data. When you have
filled out all of the fields, click "OK" and the result of your
formula will
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