An example of a simple formula
An example of a more complex formula
To enter a formula
- Position the active cell where the result is to be displayed
- On the Formula bar, click the
button
The
Function button is displayed in the Name box and the Function dialogue box is displayed beneath it. As the formula is built up a running total is displayed in the Function dialogue box.
Function button and Function dialogue box
Tip: If the Function dialogue box covers the cells you are using drag it out of the way.
- Type or click on the first cell reference in the formula
- Press the operand to use (+ - / * ^)
- Type or click on the next cell reference in the formula
- Repeat the above steps for each cell reference and operand to use
- Click OK or the green Tick button
or press Enter to accept the formula
Example formula entry showing cell B4 selected with the mouse
Note: You do not have to click the button on the Formula bar before you can enter a formula. You can press the = key on the keyboard first, then create the formula as above, but the Formula dialogue box will not be displayed to show you a running total.
Sequence of calculation
Formulae are calculated from left to right according to strict precedence. The precedence can be changed by enclosing sections of the formula in brackets (). These sections are calculated first and the result held as subtotals for other further calculations.
Tip: Know the expected result before entering a formula. Use simple numbers to verify the formula is calculating correctly. If the result is wrong either the formula has been typed incorrectly, or the sequence of calculation is not in the sequence required.
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