Enter a Formula to Calculate a Value

Set aside your calculator! Instead, use formulas to calculate values on your worksheet. To create any formula, begin by pressing the equal sign (=). You can enter values directly in a formula, for example, by typing =1+2+3. Press ENTER to see the value resulting from the formula.

You can also use values in other cells by including their cell references in the formula. For example, the formula =A1+B2+C3 totals the values in these three cells.

AutoSum button

Take advantage of Microsoft Excel functions, which are built-in formulas you can use alone or within larger formulas. To create a formula that automatically totals values with the SUM function, click the AutoSum™ button. If the proposed range to be totaled is incorrect, drag to indicate the correct range, and then press ENTER.

Paste Function button

Find the right function quickly and easily   Click the Paste Function button for help in finding the function you need and in building a formula. You can also use the Paste Function button to combine functions in a formula. Select from a list of the most frequently used functions by clicking the arrow next to the Functions list, which appears at the far left of the formula bar when you’re entering or editing a formula. Display formulas instead of values on your worksheet   Press CONTROL+` (single left quotation mark) to switch between values and formulas. See a total of currently selected data   The sum of the cells you currently have selected is displayed in the status bar at the bottom of the screen. As the selection changes, the total is updated accordingly. Get help editing formulas   If you need some guidance while editing a formula already entered in a worksheet, click the Edit Formula button. The Formula Palette appears, which provides details about the formula and allows you to modify it easily.

Use Natural Language Formulas

You can build formulas that refer to cells and cell ranges by using row and column labels instead of cell references. In the table on the preceding page, for example, instead of using the formula =SUM(B4:B6) to total the January column, you could type =SUM(January) to achieve the same result.

For more information about natural language formulas, see About Natural Language Formulas.

Office Assistant button

Want to know more?   Look up Getting Results - First Workbook in Help.