2. Formula and Functions

Spreadsheets use formulae and functions to do the many calculations that can be involved in a typical spreadsheet.

Formulae

We refer to a formula such as D3 = D4 + D5 + D6 where a calculation takes place by adding the contents of D4, D5 and D6 and placing the answer in D3.

Common formulae involve the use of addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (*) and division (/) operators.

Functions

Functions also involve placing an answer in a cell from a calculation. Functions do not use the operators listed above but use keywords programmed into the spreadsheet package to perform the required calculation.

The main functions you will use are:

• SUM,
• AVERAGE,
• MAX and
• MIN.

E.g. D3 = SUM(D4...D6) again adds up D4, D5 and D6 and puts the answer in D3

What you have to do!

About Formulae and Functions! Click to Go Larger Screen

1. Download the file records.xls.
   
   
   
   
2. Watch Movie 2 and add the required function (or formula) to cells L4, N4, G22, L23 and N23, using the methods shown in the movie. Leave the other cells empty right now, e.g. L5, L6 etc.
3. Save your file.

Mark off Exercise 2 in your Progress Grids

What you should now be able to do!

• Explain the difference of formulae and functions

• Explain the advantages of using formulae and functions.

• Know that every formulae begins with and = (equals sign)

• Use some common formulae like =SUM( ).

Continue to Section 3: Replication