- Introduction
- Understanding Formulas
- Creating a Simple Formula
- Creating a Formula Using Formula AutoComplete
- Editing a Formula
- Understanding Cell Referencing
- Using Absolute Cell References
- Using Mixed Cell References
- Using 3-D Cell References
- Naming Cells and Ranges
- Entering Named Cells and Ranges
- Managing Names
- Simplifying a Formula with Ranges
- Displaying Calculations with the Status Bar
- Calculating Totals with AutoSum
- Calculating Totals with Quick Analysis
- Performing One Time Calculations
- Converting Formulas and Values
- Correcting Calculation Errors
- Correcting Formulas
- Auditing a Worksheet
- Locating Circular References
- Performing Calculations Using Functions
- Creating Functions
- Creating Functions Using the Library
- Calculating Multiple Results
- Using Nested Functions
- Using Constants and Functions in Names
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Performing Calculations Using Functions
Functions are predesigned formulas that save you the time and trouble of creating commonly used or complex equations. Excel includes hundreds of functions that you can use alone or in combination with other formulas or functions. Functions perform a variety of calculations, from adding, averaging, and counting to more complicated tasks, such as calculating the monthly payment amount of a loan. You can enter a function manually if you know its name and all the required arguments, or you can easily insert a function using AutoComplete, which helps you select a function and enter arguments with the correct format.
Enter a Function
Click the cell where you want to enter the function.
Type = (an equal sign), type the name of the function, and then type ( (an opening parenthesis).
As you type, you can scroll down the Formula AutoComplete list, select the function you want, and then press Tab.
Type the argument or select the cell or range you want to insert in the function, and then type ) (a closed parenthesis) to complete the function.
Click the Enter button on the formula bar, or press Enter.
)
Excel will automatically add the closing parenthesis to complete the function.
Commonly Used Excel Functions
|
Function |
Description |
Sample |
SUM |
Displays the sum of the argument |
=SUM(argument) |
AVERAGE |
Displays the average value in the argument |
=AVERAGE(argument) |
COUNT |
Calculates the number of values in the argument |
=COUNT(argument) |
PMT |
Determines the monthly payment of a loan |
=PMT(argument) |