Performing calculations

To tell Excel that you are going to perform a formula in a cell you always start with the equals sign (=).

The cell will store the formula but will display the answer.

SYMBOL MEANING = start formula + addition - subtraction or negative number / division * multiplication % percentage ^ exponentiation () brackets are used to control the order of calculation

Go to Sheet 3.

Click on cell A1. Type in =4+3 and press Enter

Click on cell A2. Type in 4+3 and press Enter

Click on cell A3. Type in =12-6 and press Enter

Click on cell A4. Type in =24/4 and press Enter

Click on cell A5. Type in =8*9 and press Enter

Click on cell A6. Type in =1+6*2 and press Enter

Click on cell A6. Type in =(1+6)*2 and press Enter

Using Cell References in Formulas

We can create formulas based on values in various cells in the sheet. We can type this or use the mouse to select cells.

Click on cell C1. Type in 10 and press Enter

Click on cell C2. Type in 5 and press Enter

Click on cell C3. Type in =C1+C2 and press Enter

If you change the values the spreadsheet will automatically update when you press enter.

Click on cell C1. Change to 7 and press Enter

Notice the change.

Click on cell C3. Change to =C1*C2 and press Enter