ExcelSyntax

Syntax

A formula in Excel is used to do mathematical calculations. Formulas always start with the equal sign= typed in the cell, followed by your calculation.

Creating formulas, step by step

• Select a cell
• Type the equal sign (=)
• Select a cell or type value
• Enter an arithmetic operator
• Select another cell or type value
• Press enter

For example=1+1 is the formula to calculate1+1=2

Using Formulas with Cells

You can type values to cells and use them in your formulas.

Lets type some dummy values to get started. Double click the cells to type values into them. Go ahead and type:

• A1(309)
• A2(320)
• B1(39)
• B2(35)

Compare with the picture shown below:

3093932035

Copy Values

Well done! You have successfully typed values to cells and now we can use them to create formulas.

Here is how to do it, step by step.

1. Select the cellC1
2. Type the equal sign (=)
3. Left click onA1, the cell that has the(309) value
4. Type the minus sign (-)
5. Left click onB2, the cell that has the(35) value
6. Hit enter

The result after hitting the enter button isC1(274). Did you make it?

Another Example

Let's try one more example, this time let's make the formula=A2-B1.

Here is how to do it, step by step.

1. Select the cellC2
2. Type the equal sign (=)
3. Left clickA2, the cell that has the(320) value
4. Type the minus sign (-)
5. Left clickB1, the cell that has the(39) value
6. Hit the enter button

You got the resultC2(281), right?Way to go!

Here are some examples:

• =2+4 gives you 6
• =4-2 gives you 2
• =2*4 gives you 8
• =2/4 gives you 0.5

In the next chapter you will learn aboutRangesand how data can be moved in theSheet.

1+1