However, instead of performing these steps, a pre-built AVERAGE function exists in Excel to perform this task with very little effort on your part. We can enter a formula by adding the numbers using the plus (+) symbol, then, using the forward slash (/), dividing that total by the number of values within the data set. Once valid arguments are provided in the correct format, Excel performs the calculation and displays the result in the cell where the formula was entered.įor example, here’s how to find the average or mean of a group of numbers. For instance, there’s the SUM function to add values, the LOWER function to convert text to lowercase, and the COUNTBLANK function that counts the number of empty cells within a range.Įach function has arguments or values that should be stated in a particular order. The names of these functions are meant to be easy to remember by being close to the action they perform. Since functions are actually formulas, they also begin with an equal sign, but the most recognizable thing about functions is that they have friendly names defined within Excel. They are Excel’s way of allowing you to quickly perform complicated or frequently-used formulas without having to build the task yourself step by step. What’s the difference between formulas and functions?įunctions are Excel-defined formulas.

To signal that a calculation is expected, always start an Excel formula with an equal (=) sign. These operations are represented by the plus, minus, asterisk, and forward slash (+, -, *, /) symbols, respectively. They are mathematical expressions that simplify and, at times, automate mathematical and logical operations so that we can solve problems and analyze data.Įxcel interprets a formula as a command to do a calculation using one or more of the basic math operations - addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Formulas are what take Excel from being a plain spreadsheet to being a productivity tool.

Excel spreadsheet subtraction formula