Basic Calculations (Formulae)
A basic calculation could involve, for example, a simple addition between two values. Te calculation (or formula) always begins with an equals sign (=), which indicates to Excel that some kind of calculation is about to be entered. An example of a simple calculation is:
= A1+A2
This basic formula would add the contents of cell A1 to A2 and enter the result in the active cell.
NB. It is always a good idea to use cell references rather than typing in the actual value, as the values may be changed at a later date, resulting in the need to edit the formula. If cell references are used, this would not be necessary.
Operators
When entering calculations in your spreadsheet, the following operators (found on the keyboard) can be used:
+ Addition
- Subtraction
* Multiplication
/ Division
( Open Brackets
) Closed Brackets
The BODMAS Rule
The BODMAS Rule dictates the order of calculation:
Brackets
Over
Division
Multiplication
Addition
Subtraction
Excel will normally calculate from left to right, e.g.:
= 2 * 12 + 3 (answer is 27)
If there are parentheses (brackets) in the formula, Excel will calculate whatever is contained in the parentheses first, then carry out the remaining calculation(s), e.g.:
= 2 * (12 + 3) (answer is 30)
It can be seen that the presence of parentheses has a great effect on the outcome of the formula,
