Excel can perform a number of basic mathematical functions, and the articles below will show you how to create the formulas needed to add, subtract, multiply, or divide numbers. Also, learn how to work with exponents and basic math functions.
Topics discussed:
- How to subtract numbers with a formula.
- An example of creating a subtraction formula in Excel using point and click.
- Why using cell references makes it easier to update your calculations if your data ever changes.
Topics discussed:
- How to divide two numbers using a formula.
- An example of creating a division formula in Excel using point and click.
- Why using cell references makes it easier to update your calculations if your data ever changes.
Topics discussed:
- How to multiply two numbers using a formula.
- An example of creating a multiplication formula in Excel using point and click.
- Why using cell references makes it easier to update your calculations if your data ever changes.
Topics discussed:
- How to add two numbers with a formula.
- An example of creating an addition formula in Excel using point and click.
- Why using cell references makes it easier to update your calculations if your data ever changes.
Topics discussed:
- The order of operations that these spreadsheets follow when calculating a formula.
- How to change the order of operations in formulas.
Exponents in Excel
Although less used than the mathematical operators listed above, Excel uses the caret ( ^ ) as an exponent operator in formulas. Exponents are sometimes called repeated multiplication because the exponent tells how many times to multiply the base number by itself.
For example, the exponent 4^2 (four squared) has a base number of 4 and an exponent of 2, and is raised to the power of two.
Anyway, the formula is shorthand, stating that the base number must be multiplied by two (4 x 4) to get a result of 16.
Similarly, 5^3 (five dice) indicates that the total number 5 must be multiplied by three (5 x 5 x 5), giving 125.
Excel math functions
In addition to the basic mathematical formulas listed above, Excel has several functions – built-in formulas – that can be used to perform many mathematical operations.
These features include:
- That SUMMER Function – Add columns or rows of numbers.
- That PRODUCT Function – Multiplies two or more numbers together. When multiplying just two numbers, a multiplication formula is simpler.
- That QUOTIENT Function – Returns only the integer part (integer only) of a division operation.
- That MOD Function – Returns only the remainder of a division operation.