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Microsoft Excel - Formula Basics

The parts of an Excel formula

A formula can also contain any or all of the following: functions, references, operators, and constants.

Parts of a formula

1. Functions: The PI() function returns the value of pi: 3.142...
2. References: A2 returns the value in cell A2.
3. Constants: Numbers or text values entered directly into a formula, such as 2.
4. Operators: The ^ (caret) operator raises a number to a power, and the * (asterisk) operator multiplies numbers.

Create a formula that refers to values in other cells

1. Select a cell.
2. Type the equal sign =. Note: Formulas in Excel always begin with the equal sign.
3. Select a cell or type its address in the selected cell.
4. Enter an Operator. For example, – for subtraction.
5. Select the next cell, or type its address in the selected cell. next cell
6. Press Enter. The result of the calculation appears in the cell with the formula.

See a formula

1. When a formula is entered into a cell, it also appears in the Formula bar.
2. To see a formula, select a cell, and it will appear in the formula bar.

Enter a formula that contains a built-in function

1. Select an empty cell.
2. Type an equal sign = and then type a function. For example, =SUM for getting the total sales.
3. Type an opening parenthesis (.
4. Select the range of cells, and then type a closing parenthesis).
5. Press Enter to get the result.

See Also:

• Excel Formulas tutorial workbook - The formulas tutorial workbook is a downloadable/interactive workbook that will walk you through the most commonly used formulas in Excel, including Sum, Count, Vlookup and more.