Entering Formulas

A formula is an equation which performs calculations between cells in a worksheet or table. A formula always begins with an equal sign. A simple formula may contain cell references and operators.

To enter a formula:

  1. Click the cell in which you want to enter the formula.
  2. Type = (an equal sign).
  3. Type the formula.
  4. Click outside the cell or press Enter.


Clicking a cell will add it to the formula as a reference.

If a formula has more than one operator, Excel will perform mathematical operations in this order:

  1. Exponentiation
  2. Multiplication and division
  3. Addition and subtraction
Adding parentheses around an operation will override this order, forcing Excel to perform this calculation first.

You can also enter a formula by selecting the cell and typing the formula in the formula bar.