Syntax
A formula in Excel is used to do mathematical calculations. Formulas always start with the equal sign = typed in the cell, followed by your calculation.
Note: You claim the cell by selecting it and typing the equal sign (=)
Creating formulas, step by step
Select a cell
Type the equal sign (=)
Select a cell or type value
Enter an arithmetic operator
Select another cell or type value
Press enter
For example =1+1 is the formula to calculate 1+1=2
Using Formulas with Cells
You can type values to cells and use them in your formulas.
Lets type some dummy values to get started. Double click the cells to type values into them. Go ahead and type:
A1(309)
A2(320)
B1(39)
B2(35)
Compare with the picture shown below:
Well done! You have successfully typed values to cells and now we can use them to create formulas.
Here is how to do it, step by step.
Select the cell C1
Type the equal sign (=)
Left click on A1, the cell that has the (309) value
Type the minus sign (-)
Left click on B2, the cell that has the (35) value
Hit enter
The result after hitting the enter button is C1(274). Did you make it?
Another Example
Let's try one more example, this time let's make the formula =A2-B1.
Here is how to do it, step by step.
Select the cell C2
Type the equal sign (=)
Left click A2, the cell that has the (320) value
Type the minus sign (-)
Left click B1, the cell that has the (39) value
Hit the enter button
You got the result C2(281), right? Way to go!
In the next chapter you will learn about Ranges and how data can be moved in the Sheet.