Google Sheets is a powerful spreadsheet program that performs complex computations on the data you

enter into each cell. The application uses formulas and functions to do these tasks, so you don't have to.
A formula is an expression that you input to tell Google Sheets how to calculate the value of a cell. A
function is a predefined formula that Google Sheets has created for you.

Why Use a Function?

The difference between a formula and a function is that you create formulas to perform a
computation, and functions are pre-built formulas found in Google Sheets. Functions save time
and reduce the chance of errors.

For example, to add a row of numbers using a formula, enter the following formula into a cell in
Google Sheets:

=A1+B1+C1+D1+E1+F1

Enter the following formula to add the same row of numbers using a function:

=SUM(A1:F1)

Using a function is efficient when working with a large number of items or for more complex
computations.

Google Sheets Function Syntax

Each function has a syntax, which is the specific order in which the elements needed for the
function to perform the desired calculation are entered. 

Every function begins with the function name, followed by the arguments, which are separated
by commas or a colon and enclosed in parentheses. The basic construction of a function is:

Function_Name(argument1,argument2)

Here's an example:

SUM(A1,B1)

How to Use Google Sheets Functions

The fastest and easiest way to use a function is from the Functions menu. 

1. Select the cell where you want to display the result of the calculation.
2 On the toolbar, select Functions, then choose a function. There are five basic functions, plus
submenus that contain every possible function. The five basic functions are:

 SUM: Adds the values in a range of cells

 AVERAGE: Calculates the average of the values in a range of cells.
 COUNT: Provides the number of values in a range of cells.
 MAX: Provides the highest value in a range of cells.
 MIN: Provides the lowest value in a range of cells.

3 Choose the cells to include in the range.

4 Press Enter.

5 The result appears in the selected cell.