How to write a formula
A formula starts with an equals sign and points at cells. See how to write one, and why cell references beat typed figures.
In this room: 2 tasks, 8 questions
- Start with an equals sign4 questions
- Point at cells, do not type the figures4 questions
A formula is an instruction that tells the sheet to work something out. Every formula starts with an equals sign.
Without the equals sign, the sheet treats what you typed as plain text and just shows it.
- +
- add
- -
- take away
- *
- multiply
- /
- divide
| A | B | C | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Item | Boxes | Price | Line total |
| 2 | Copier paper | 12 | 4.50 | |
| 3 | Envelopes | 8 | 3.20 | |
| 4 | Ring binders | 5 | 2.75 |
Answer the questions below
3 more questions follow in this task.
A formula can use typed figures, such as =12*4.50. It is better to point at the cells that hold them.
When a cell changes, every formula that points at it is worked out again. A typed figure stays as it was.
| A | B | C | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Item | Boxes | Price | Line total |
| 2 | Copier paper | 12 | 4.50 | |
| 3 | Envelopes | 8 | 3.20 | |
| 4 | Ring binders | 5 | 2.75 |
Answer the questions below
3 more questions follow in this task.