Formula Tutorial1

Get started with formul
In just a few steps, you’ll be up and running with building formulas and func
world’s most powerful spreadsheet app.
Go back to the top by pressing CTRL+HOME. To start the tour, press CTRL+PAGE DOWN.
While =10+20
might
calculate the
same result as
=A1+B1,
constants
aren’t a good
practice.
Why? Because
you can’t
Basics:
easily see
You can
constant
Basics: Doing maths with Excel
Doing
the maths with Excel
Add, Subtract, Multiply and Divide in Excel without using any built-in functions. You just need to use some basic opera
without
To Add, select
selecting the cell F3, type =C3+C4, then press Enter.
You can Add, Subtract, Multiply and Divide in Excel without using any built-in
cell and
Formulas can
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cell You
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select cell F6, type =C3/C4, then press Enter.
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Take
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CREDIT: You can raise a value to a power by using the carat (^) symbol, like =A1^A2. Enter it by pressing Shift+6. In cell
examples
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adjusted and
=A1+B1
More aboutinformulas, cells and ranges
referenced
=10+20
Excel
your is made3up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows are numbered, and columns are lettered. Th
formulas.
=SUM(A1:A10)
For example:
Select the that in our third example above, we used the SUM function. A function is a pre-built command that takes a value
You’ll notice
yellow cell 4
with 12
Formulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows with its arguments (the values a function us
below. You’ll
see we used
You confirm a formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that, the formula will be calculated and the result will be displayed in th
the SUM
function with Dive down for more detail
a range of
SomeWe
cells. formula explanations
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=10+20type
is a “4”
formula, where 10 and 20 are constants and the + sign is the operator.
or “8” directly
=SUM(A1:A10) is a formula, where SUM is the function name, the opening and closing parentheses contain the formula argum
into the
formula. More about formulas, cells and ranges
=SUM(A1:A10,C1:C10) is a formula, where SUM is the function name, the opening and closing parentheses contain the formul
Previous
Excel is made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows
Next
are numbered, and columns are lettered. There are over 1 million rows and 16,000
More information on the web
columns, and you can put formulas in any of them.
Use Excel Formulas
as a calculator
can contain cell references, ranges of cell references, operators and
Overview constants.
of formulasThe
in Excel
following are all examples of formulas:
Excel functions (by category)
=A1+B1
Excel functions (alphabetical)
Free Excel training=10+20
online
=SUM(A1:A10)
You’ll notice that in our third example above, we used the SUM function. A function
is a pre-built command that takes a value or values, calculates them in a certain way
and returns a result. For instance, the SUM function takes the cell references or
ranges you specify and totals them. In this example it takes the cells A1 to A10, and
totals them. Excel has over 400 functions, which you can explore on the Formulas
tab.
Formulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows
with its arguments (the values a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses.
Formulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows
with its arguments (the values a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses.
You confirm a formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that, the formula will be
calculated and the result will be displayed in the cell. To see the formula itself, you
can look at the formula bar beneath the Ribbon, or press F2 to enter Edit mode,
where you’ll see the formula in the cell. Press Enter again to finalise the formula and
calculate the result.
Previous

Basics: Doing maths with Excel
ics: Doing maths with Excel
can Add, Subtract, Multiply and Divide in Excel without using any built-in functions. You just need to use some basic operators: +, -, *, /. A
Add, select cell F3, type =C3+C4, then press Enter.

You can Add, Subtract, Multiply and Divide in Excel without using any built-in
functions.
Subtract, You
select cell F4,just
typeneed to use
=C3-C4, thensome
press basic
Enter.operators: +, -, *, /. All formulas start
with
Multiply, an equals
select cell F5, (=)
typesign.
=C3*C4, then press Enter.
Divide, select cell F6, type =C3/C4, then press Enter.

1 To Add, select cell F3, type =C3+C4, then press Enter.
e a look at this: change the numbers in cells C3 and C4, and watch the formula results automatically change.
RA CREDIT: You can raise a value to a power by using the carat (^) symbol, like =A1^A2. Enter it by pressing Shift+6. In cell F7, enter =C3^C
e down for2 moreTodetail
Subtract, select cell F4, type =C3-C4, then press Enter.
re about formulas, cells and ranges

el is made3up ofTo Multiply,
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rows and press Enter.
columns. Rows are numbered, and columns are lettered. There are over 1
’ll notice 4
that inTo
ourDivide,
third example above,
select cell F6, we used
type the SUM
=C3/C4, function.
then A function is a pre-built command that takes a value or values, calcu
press Enter.
mulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows with its arguments (the values a function uses to calculate)
confirm a formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that, the formula will be calculated and the result will be displayed in the cell. To see th
Dive down for more detail Next step
me formula explanations
+20 is a formula, where 10 and 20 are constants and the + sign is the operator.
UM(A1:A10) is a formula, where SUM is the function name, the opening and closing parentheses contain the formula arguments, and A1:A
More about formulas, cells and ranges
UM(A1:A10,C1:C10) is a formula, where SUM is the function name, the opening and closing parentheses contain the formula arguments, an
Excel is made up of individual cells that are grouped into rows and columns. Rows
are numbered, and columns are lettered. There are over 1 million rows and 16,000
re information on the web
columns, and you can put formulas in any of them.
Excel Formulas
as a calculator
erview constants.
can contain cell references, ranges of cell references, operators and
of formulasThe
in Excel
following are all examples of formulas:
el functions (by category)
=A1+B1
=A1+B1 Cell
el functions (alphabetical) reference
e Excel training=10+20
online
=SUM(A1:A10)
You’ll notice that in our third example above, we used the SUM function. A function
is a pre-built command that takes a value or values, calculates them in a certain way
and returns a result. For instance, the SUM function takes the cell references or
ranges you specify and totals them. In this example it takes the cells A1 to A10, and
totals them. Excel has over 400 functions, which you can explore on the Formulas =SUM(A1
tab.
A range of cells has a st
Formulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows ending cell. When you se
with its arguments (the values a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses. formula, Excel will auto
A range of cells has a st
Formulas with functions start with an equals sign, then the function name follows ending cell. When you se
with its arguments (the values a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses. formula, Excel will auto
You confirm a formula by pressing Enter. Once you do that, the formula will be
calculated and the result will be displayed in the cell. To see the formula itself, you
can look at the formula bar beneath the Ribbon, or press F2 to enter Edit mode,
where you’ll see the formula in the cell. Press Enter again to finalise the formula and
calculate the result.
Previous Next
=SUM(A1
More information on the web Opening paren
Use Excel as a calculator
Overview of formulas in Excel
Free Excel training online

Numbers to use: Operation: Formulas: Answers:
1 Addition (+) 3
2 Subtraction (-) -1
Multiplication (*) 2
Division (/) 0.5

TAKE A LOOK Power AT THIS EXTRA CREDIT
(^) You can raise a1 value to a
Change the numbers here, and power by using the carat (^)
ressing Shift+6. In cell F7, enter =C3^C4.
watch the formula results symbol, like =C3^C4. Enter it
automatically change. by pressing Shift+6.
olumns are lettered. There are over 1 million rows and 16,000 columns, and you can put formulas in any of them.
and that takes a value or values, calculates them in a certain way and returns a result. For instance, the SUM function takes the cell refere
he values a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses.
will be displayed in the cell. To see the formula itself, you can look at the formula bar beneath the Ribbon, or press F2 to enter Edit mode
tain the formula arguments, and A1:A10 is the cell range for the function.
ses contain the formula arguments, and A1:A10,C1:C10 are the cell ranges for the function separated by a comma.
GOOD TO KNOW
Operator Operator Constants are values that you enter in cells or fo
While =10+20 might calculate the same result a
=A1+B1 =10+20 constants aren’t a good practice. Why? Because

easily see the constant without selecting the ce
looking for it. That can make it hard to change l
much easier to put your constants in cells wher
Cell Cell be easily adjusted and referenced in your formu
Constant Constant
reference reference
For example: Select the yellow cell with 12 belo
see we used the SUM function with a range of c
didn’t type “4” or “8” directly into the formula.
Function Argument
=SUM(A1:A10)
A range of cells has a starting cell, colon and an
ending cell. When you select a range of cells for a
formula, Excel will automatically add the colon.
A range of cells has a starting cell, colon and an
ending cell. When you select a range of cells for a
formula, Excel will automatically add the colon.
Values
4
Commas separate multiple arguments 8
12
Function Argument Argument
=SUM(A1:A10,C1:C10)
A range of cells Another range of cells
Opening parenthesis Closing parenthesis. Excel will usually add this

for you when you press Enter.
nction takes the cell references or ranges you specify, and totals them. In this example it takes the cells A1 to A10, and totals them. Excel h
ress F2 to enter Edit mode, where you’ll see the formula in the cell. Press Enter again to finalise the formula and calculate the result.
W
that you enter in cells or formulas.
calculate the same result as =A1+B1,
od practice. Why? Because you can’t
nt without selecting the cell and
n make it hard to change later. It’s
our constants in cells where they can
d referenced in your formulas.
he yellow cell with 12 below. You’ll

M function with a range of cells. We
directly into the formula.
ually add this
nter.
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d calculate the result.

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Try the COUNT
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recommend 1
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to D41,
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TODAY function returns today’s date. It will automatically update when Excel recalculates.
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Select
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a formula.
All about the3SUM function
Use AutoSum to sum numbers
All about the COUNT function
Back to top Dive down for more detail
Next step
More about functions

Go to the Formulas tab and browse through the Function Library, where functions are
listed by category, like Text, Date & Time etc. Insert Function will let you search for
functions by name, and launch a function wizard that can help you build your formula.
When you start typing a function name after you press =, Excel will launch Intellisense,
which will list all of the functions starting with the letters you type. When you find the
one you want, press Tab, and Excel will automatically finish the function name and
enter the opening parenthesis for you. It will also display the optional and required
arguments.
Now, let’s look at the anatomy of a few functions. The SUM function is structured like
this:
If the SUM function could talk, it would say: “Return the sum of all the values in cells
D38 to D41, and all of column H”.
Now, let’s try one that doesn’t require any arguments.
Back to top

Go back to the top by pressing CTRL+HOME. To proceed to the next step, press CTRL+PAGE DOWN.
Introduction to functions
oduction to functions
ctions give you the ability to do a variety of things, like perform mathematical operations, look up values or eve
w, let’s try AutoSum. Select the cell under the column for Meat (cell G7), then go to Formulas > AutoSum > select SUM. You’ll see Excel aut
to theFunctions
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where mathematical
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a function name after you press =, Excel will launch Intellisense, which will list all of the functions starting wi
the COUNT function using any of the methods you’ve already tried. The COUNT function counts the number of cells in a range that contai
1 Under the Amount column for Fruit (cell D7), enter =SUM(D3:D6), or type
=SUM(, then select that range with the mouse and press Enter. This will sum
re about functions
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2 Now, let’s try AutoSum. Select the yellow cell under the column for Meat
TODAY function
KE A LOOK AT THIS returns today’s date. It will automatically update when Excel
(cell G7), then go to Formulas > AutoSum > select SUM. You’ll see Excel recalculates.
ect these cells. Then in the bottom-right
automatically enter thecorner
formulaof the ExcelPress
for you. window, looktofor
Enter SUM: 170
confirm in the bottom bar. That’s called the Status Bar, and
it. The
AutoSum feature has all of the most common functions.
about the3SUM Here’s
functiona handy keyboard shortcut. Select cell D15, then press Athen lt =
AutoSum to sum numbers
Enter. This automatically enters SUM for you.
about the COUNT function
e Excel training online
Dive down for more detail Next step
More about functions

Go to the Formulas tab and browse through the Function Library, where functions are
listed by category, like Text, Date & Time etc. Insert Function will let you search for
functions by name, and launch a function wizard that can help you build your formula.
When you start typing a function name after you press =, Excel will launch Intellisense,
which will list all of the functions starting with the letters you type. When you find the
one you want, press Tab, and Excel will automatically finish the function name and
enter the opening parenthesis for you. It will also display the optional and required
arguments.
Now, let’s look at the anatomy of a few functions. The SUM function is structured like
this:
The function The first Additional

name. argument. It’s arguments,
almost separated by
always commas (,).
required.
The function The first Additional
name. argument. It’s arguments,
almost separated by
always commas (,).
required.
=SUM(D38:D41,H:H)
If the SUM function could talk, it would say: “Return the sum of all the values in cells
D38 to D41, and all of column H”.
Now, let’s try one that doesn’t require any arguments.
The TODAY function returns today’s date. It will

automatically update when Excel recalculates.
=TODAY()

All about the SUM function
Use AutoSum to sum numbers
All about the COUNT function
Back to top Next step

back to the top by pressing CTRL+HOME. To proceed to the next step, press CTRL+PAGE DOWN.
Fruit Amount Meat Amount
Apples 50 Beef 50
Oranges 20 Chicken 30
Bananas 60 Pork 10
Lemons 40 Fish 50
SUM > 170 SUM >
Item Amount Item Amount

Bread 50 Bread 50
Doughnuts 100 Doughnuts 100
Cookies 40 Cookies 40
Cakes 50 Cakes 50
Pies 20 Pies 20
SUM > COUNT >
EXTRA CREDIT
Try the COUNT function using any
of the methods you’ve already
tried. The COUNT function counts
the number of cells in a range that
contains numbers.
Fruit Amount
Apples 50 TAKE A LOOK AT THIS
Select these cells. Then, in the bottom-
Oranges 20 right corner of the Excel window, look for
Bananas 60 this:
Lemons 40
SUM > 170 That’s called the Status Bar, and it’s just
another way to quickly find a total and
other details about a selected cell or
range.
Item Amount
Cars 20
Lorries 10
Bikes 10
Skates 40
Total: Additional Value New Total

180 100 180
IMPORTANT DETAIL
Double-click this cell. You’ll notice the 100 towards the
end. Although it’s possible to put numbers in a formula
like this, we don’t recommend it unless it’s absolutely
necessary. This is known as a constant, and it’s easy to
forget that it’s there. We recommend referring to
another cell instead, like cell F51. That way, it’s easily
seen and not hidden inside a formula.
EXTRA CREDIT
Try using
TAKE A LOOK
MEDIAN or
AT
MODETHIS
AVERAGE here.
Select
AVERAGE function
functionany
range of gives
MEDIAN
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then function to get the average of numbers in a range of cells.
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then function
use AutoSum to get
to add an the average function.
AVERAGE of numbers in a range of cells.
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of
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theselect
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an instant
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In
Average.
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cell gives you can use either AutoSum, or type to enter another AVERAGE function.
the one that
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Select to learn
Select to learn all about the MEDIAN function on the web
Select to learn all about the MODE function on the web
Select to learn about free Excel training on the web
Previous
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AVERAGE function
e the AVERAGE function to get the average of numbers in a range of cells.
ect cellUse
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AVERAGE of numbers in a range of cells.
w select cell G7, and enter an AVERAGE function by typing =AVERAGE(G3:G6).
cell D15,1 Select
you can use cell D7,AutoSum,
either then use or
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Previous Next
Next

All about the AVERAGE function
All about the MEDIAN function
All about the MODE function

Apples 50 Beef 50 TAKE A LOOK AT THIS
Select any range of numbers,
Oranges 20 Chicken 30 then look in the Status Bar for
Bananas 60 Pork 10 an instant Average.
Lemons 40 Fish 50
AVERAGE > AVERAGE >

Bread 50 Bread 50
Cakes 50 Cakes 50
Pies 20 Pies 20
AVERAGE >
EXTRA CREDIT
Try using MEDIAN or MODE here.
MEDIAN gives you the value in

the middle of the data set, while
MODE gives the one that occurs
the most frequently.
More about the SUM function

In some of the above tips, we taught you how to use the SUM function. Here are more details about it.
Cells C37 to D41 contain data with two columns: Fruit and Amount.
The formula in cell D42: =SUM(D38:D41).
If the SUM function in cell D42 could talk, it would say this: Sum up the values in cells D38, D39, D40 and D41.
Here’s another way it can be used:
Cells C47 to D48 contain data with two columns: Item and Amount.

All about the SUM function
All about the SUMIF function
Use Excel as your calculator
Go back to the top by pressing CTRL+HOME. To proceed to the next step, press CTRL+PAGE DOWN.
K AT THIS
f numbers,
atus Bar for
.
GOOD TO
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You can use either MIN or MAX with multiple ranges or values to show the greater or lesser of those values, like =MIN(A1:A10,B1:B10) o

All about the MIN function
All about the MAX function
Use Excel as your calculator
MIN and MAX functions
N and MAX functions
the MIN function to get the minimum number in a range of cells.
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1 Select cell D7, then use the AutoSum Wizard to add a MIN function.
about the MIN function

Now select cell G7, and enter a MAX function by typing =MAX(D3:D6).
about the 2MAX function
3 In cell D15, you can use either the AutoSum Wizard, or type to enter a MIN
or MAX function.
Previous Next

can use either MIN or MAX with multiple ranges or values to show the greater or lesser of those values, like =MIN(A1:A10,B1:B10) or =MAX(A1:A10,1

All about the MIN function
about the MIN function
about the MAX function
All about the MAX function
Excel as your calculator
Apples 50 Beef 50
Bananas 60 Pork 10
Lemons 40 Fish 50
MIN > MAX >

Bread 50 Bread 50
Cakes 50 Cakes 50
Pies 20 Pies 20
MIN or MAX > 10
GOOD TO KNOW
You can use either MIN or MAX with multiple
=MIN(A1:A10,B1:B10) or =MAX(A1:A10,10).
ranges or values to show the greater or lesser of
those values, like =MIN(A1:A10,B1:B10) or
=MAX(A1:A10,B1), where B1 contains a threshold
value, like 10, in which case the formula would
never return a result less than 10.
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otherwise
though. the
ToKNOW
1
do
GOOD
Time
show TO
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D7to
that,
Excel go
keeps dates and times based on the number of days starting from 1 January 1900. Times are kept in fractional portions o
you
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Home can go to
>D6”.
Ctrl+1
Format>> Cells
Number
(Ctrl+1) >>
Time functions
Time > Select
Number
Excel
the can>give
format 2you the current time, based on your computer’s regional settings. You can also add and subtract times. For insta
Number >2
you want.
decimals.
3
If this formula could talk, it would say: “Take the Time Out and subtract it from the Time In, then subtract the Lunch Out/In Tim
Previous
Next
All about the TODAY function
All about the NOW function
All about the DATE function
Time functions
Excel can give you the current time, based on your computer’s regional settings. You
can also add and subtract times. For instance, you might need to keep track of how
many hours an employee worked each week, and calculate their pay and overtime.
3
Previous

Date functions
el can give you the current date, based on your computer’s regional settings. You can also add and subtract Dates.
eck out the TODAY function, which gives you Today’s date. These are live, or volatile functions, so when you open your workbook tomorrow
Excel can give you the current date, based on your computer’s regional settings. You
tract Dates – Enter
can also addyour
andnext birthday
subtract in DD/MM/YY format in cell D7, and watch Excel tell you how many days away it is by using =D7-D6
Dates.
d Dates – Let’s say you want to know which date a bill is due on, or when you need to return a library book. You can add days to a date to fi
1 Take a look at the TODAY function, which gives you Today’s date. These
OD TO KNOW are live, or volatile functions, so when you open your workbook tomorrow,
el keeps dates and times based on the number of days starting from 1 January 1900. Times are kept in fractional portions of a day based o
it will have tomorrow’s date. Enter =TODAY() in cell D6.
2you the
el can give Subtract
currentDates
time, –based
Enteron
your next
your birthdayregional
computer’s in DD/MM/YY
settings.format in also
You can cell D7,
add and subtract times. For instance, you might
and watch Excel tell you how many days away it is by using =D7-D6 in cell D8.
3 Add Dates – Let’s say you want to know which date a bill is due on, or when
his formula could talk,
you it would
need say: “Take
to return the Time
a library book.Out
Youand subtract
can it from
add days to athe Time
date to In,
findthen
out.subtract
In the Lunch Out/In Times, then multi
cell D10, enter a random number of days. In cell D11, we added =D6+D10
to calculate the due date from today.
about the TODAY function
about the NOW function
about the DATE function
Time functions
Excel can give you the current time, based on your computer’s regional settings. You
can also add and subtract times. For instance, you might need to keep track of how
many hours an employee worked each week, and calculate their pay and overtime.
1 In cell D28, enter =NOW(), which will give the current time, and will
update each time Excel calculates. If you need to change the Time format,
you can go to Ctrl+1 > Number > Time > Select the format you want.
2 Add up hours between times – In cell D36 we’ve entered =((D35-D32)-

(D34-D33))*24, which calculates someone’s start and end times, then
subtracts the time they took for lunch. The *24 at the end of the formula
converts the fractional portion of the day that Excel sees into hours. You’ll
need to format the cell as a Number though. To do that, go to Home >
Format > Cells (Ctrl+1) > Number > Number > 2 decimals.
3 If this formula could talk, it would say: “Take the Time Out and subtract it
from the Time In, then subtract the Lunch Out/In Times, then multiply
those by 24 to convert Excel’s fractional time to hours”, or =((Time In -
Time Out)-(Lunch In - Lunch Out))*24.
*24 to convert Excel’s
fraction of a day to
hours
*24 to convert Excel’s
fraction of a day to
Time Out Lunch Out hours
=((D35-D32)-(D34-D33))*24
Time In Lunch In
The inner parentheses () make sure Excel calculates those

parts of the formula by themselves. The outer
parentheses make sure Excel multiplies the final inner result by
24.
Previous Next

All about the TODAY function
All about the NOW function
All about the DATE function

ubtract Dates.
en you open your workbook tomorrow, it will have tomorrow’s date. Enter =TODAY() in cell D6.
many days away it is by using =D7-D6 in cell D8.
Date functions
Today’s date:
Your birthday: IMPORTANT DETAIL
Days until your birthday: If you don’t want Excel to display a negative number,
because you haven’t entered your birthday yet, you
ubtract times. For instance, you might need to keep track of how many hours anan
can use employee worked
IF function each=IF(D7="","",D7-D6),
like this: week, and calculate their pay and
which says, “IF D7 equals nothing, then show nothing,
Grace period days: otherwise show D7 minus D6”.
Bill due on:
ct the Lunch Out/In Times, then multiply those by 24 to convert Excel’s fractional time to hours”, or =((Time In - Time Out)-(Lunch In - Lunc
GOOD TO KNOW
Excel keeps dates and times based on the number of
days starting from 1 January 1900. Times are kept in
fractional portions of a day based on minutes. So 12:30
PM on 01/01/2017 is actually stored as 42736.5208. If
the Time or Date show up as numbers like that, then
you can press Ctrl+1 > Number > select a Date or Time
format.
Time functions
Current Time:
Daily Hours Worked

Time In: 8:00 AM
Lunch Out: 12:00 PM
Lunch In: 1:00 PM
Time Out: 5:00 PM
Total Hours: 8
Static Date & Time
Date: 27/09/17
Time: 8:52 AM
GOOD TO KNOW
You can use keyboard shortcuts to enter Dates
and Times that won’t continuously change:
Date – Ctrl+;
Time – Ctrl+Shift+:
ative number,
hday yet, you
and calculate their pay and overtime.
"","",D7-D6),
show nothing,
- Time Out)-(Lunch In - Lunch Out))*24.

Joining text from different cells
There are many times in Excel when you want to join text that’s in different cells. This example is very common, where you ha
WORTH
In cell E3, There
EXPLORING enter =D3&C3
are manyto times
join theinsurnames
Excel whenandyou
firstwant
names.to join text that’s in different cells. This
If you don’t example
SmithNancy
don’t
In cellknow doesn’tislook
C36,combine
veryquite
common, where We
right though. youneed
havetofirst
addnames
a comma andand
surnames, and
a space. To dowant
that, to
we’ll use quotes to create a ne
TAKE A LOOK
which=C28&"
format them as first name, surname or full name. Fortunately, Excel lets us do that
enter
AT
To
codeTHIS
create
to the
with
use, full
the name, we’ll
Ampersand join first
(&) name
sign, and
which surname,
you can but
enter use a
withspace without
Shift+7. a comma. In F3, enter =C3&" "&D3.
"&TEXT(D28,"
Formulas,
you can use
YYYY-MM-
especially
Ctrl+1 > big
DD").
Dive YYYY-
down for more detail
ones,
Number
MM-DD
Next
can to
is 1
the
sometimes
format any be
UK format
Using
hard
cell totext
the read,and numbers together
code forway
Year-
but
Now, you can
you want. use the & to join text and numbers, not just text and text
we’ll
Month-Day,
break
Then up their
select
like 2017-09-
2
parts
Look
the with
at cells C28:D29. See how the date and times are in separate cells? You can join them together with the & symbol like yo
25. Custom
spaces
option.like
You
this:
can copy the
In cell C37, enter =C29&" "&TEXT(D29,"HH:MM AM/PM"). HH:MM AM/PM is the UK format code for Hours:Minutes AM or PM
format code
=C28
that’s& " " &
TEXT(D28,"YY
displayed back
YY-MM-DD")
3
to your
formula.
All about the TEXT function
Combine text and numbers Dive down for more detail
Using text and numbers together

Now, we’ll use the & to join text and numbers, not just text and text
Look at cells C28:D29. See how the date and times are in separate cells? You can join
them together with the & symbol like you’ll see in cells C32:C33, but that doesn’t
look right, does it? Unfortunately, Excel doesn’t know how you want to format the
numbers, so it breaks them down to their basest format, which is the Serial date in
this case. We need to explicitly tell Excel how to format the number portion of the
formula, so it displays the way you want in the resulting text string. You can do that
with the TEXT function and a format code.
1
1
Previous
2

ning text from different cells
re are many times in Excel when you want to join text that’s in different cells. This example is very common, where you have first names a
ell E3, There

enter =D3&C3 to times
are many join the
insurnames andyou
Excel when firstwant
names.
to join text that’s in different cells. This
example
thNancy doesn’tislook
veryquite
common, where We
right though. youneed
havetofirst
addnames
a commaandand
surnames, and
a space. To dowant
that, to
we’ll use quotes to create a new text string. T
combine them as first name, surname or full name. Fortunately, Excel lets us do that
create with
the full
thename, we’ll join(&)
Ampersand first name
sign, and surname,
which but use
you can enter a space
with without a comma. In F3, enter =C3&" "&D3.
Shift+7.
e down for more

Indetail
1 cell E3, enter =D3&C3 to join the surnames and first names.
ng text and numbers together

w, we’ll use the SmithNancy
& to join text doesn’t
and numbers, not just textthough.
and textWe need to add a comma
2 look quite right
andSee
k at cells C28:D29. a space. Todate
how the do that, we’ll use
and times quotes
are in to create
separate a new
cells? You can text string.together
join them This with the & symbol like you’ll see in cells C
time, enter =D3&", "&C3. The &", "& portion lets us join a comma and
space with
ell C37, enter =C29&" the text in the cells.
"&TEXT(D29,"HH:MM AM/PM"). HH:MM AM/PM is the UK format code for Hours:Minutes AM or PM, like 1:30 PM.
3 To create the full name, we’ll join first name and surname, but use a space
without a comma. In F3, enter =C3&" "&D3.

about the TEXT function
mbine text and numbers
Dive down for more detail Next
Using text and numbers together

Now, we’ll use the & to join text and numbers, not just text and text
Look at cells C28:D29. See how the date and times are in separate cells? You can join
them together with the & symbol like you’ll see in cells C32:C33, but that doesn’t
look right, does it? Unfortunately, Excel doesn’t know how you want to format the
numbers, so it breaks them down to their basest format, which is the Serial date in
this case. We need to explicitly tell Excel how to format the number portion of the
formula, so it displays the way you want in the resulting text string. You can do that
with the TEXT function and a format code.
1 In cell C36, enter =C28&" "&TEXT(D28,"YYYY-MM-DD"). YYYY-MM-DD

is the UK format code for Year-Month-Day, like 2017-09-25.
1 In cell C36, enter =C28&" "&TEXT(D28,"YYYY-MM-DD"). YYYY-MM-DD
is the UK format code for Year-Month-Day, like 2017-09-25.
Previous Next
2 In cell C37, enter =C29&" "&TEXT(D29,"HH:MM AM/PM"). HH:MM
AM/PM is the UK format code for Hours:Minutes AM or PM, like 1:30 PM.

All about the TEXT function
Combine text and numbers

First Name Surname Surname, First Name Full Name
Nancy Smith Smith, Nancy Nancy Smith
Andy North
Jan Kotas
Maria Jones
Steven Thorpe
Michael Neipper
Robert Zare
Yvonne McKay
ours:Minutes AM or PM, like 1:30 PM.
Using text & numbers

Today’s date: 24/09/23
Current time: 12:55 PM
TAKE A LOOK AT THIS
Joining text & numbers Formulas, especially big ones, can
sometimes be hard to read, but you can
Today’s date: 45193 break up their parts with spaces like this:
Current time: 45193.5387939041
=C28 & " " & TEXT(D28,"YYYY-MM-DD")
Formatting text & numbers
Today’s date: 2023-09-24
Current time: 12:55 PM
WORTH EXPLORING
If you don’t don’t know which format code to use,
you can use Ctrl+1 > Number to format any cell the
way you want. Then select the Custom option. You
can copy the format code that’s displayed back to
your formula.
WORTH EXPLORING
If you don’t don’t know which format code to use,
you can use Ctrl+1 > Number to format any cell the
way you want. Then select the Custom option. You
can copy the format code that’s displayed back to
your formula.
D12.toWe’ve
F35
got you
“Delivery”. As
started
you startwith
=IF(C12<100,"
typing,
In cell F33, Excel’s
Less than
auto-correct,
we’ve entered
Next,
100","Greater
should we’ve
find it
In
Copy
added cellD9
=IF(E33="Yes", D9
an toIF
than
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enter you.
F31*VAT,0), or equal
When
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does, The press to
=IF(C9="Apple
where
answer
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",TRUE,FALSE)
set happens
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should
delivery
if
it. you be
enter
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EXPERT
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IF
and
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number
F35,
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TIP
In
Range,
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with an a allow you to make logical comparisons between conditions. An IF statement generally says that if one condition
you’ll
than
value
Named
orange
see of is not
or equalOur
entered
0.0825. itto
Ranges
an apple.
=IF(E35="Yes",
100 allow
inFormulas
cell
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formula says If
you to define
SUM(D28:D29 IF statements allow you to make logical comparisons between conditions. An IF
>C12?
Define
cell E33 equals
terms
)*1.25,0). or statement
This generally says that if one condition is true, do something, otherwise do
Name.
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values
says “Ifincell a
you
multiplyever
IMPORTANT need
cell DETAIL
something else. The formulas can return text, values or even more calculations.
single
E35 place,
is and
Yes,
to
TRUE
F31 change
by VAT, FALSE are unlike other words in Excel formulas in that they don’t need to be in quotes, and Excel will automatically c
and then
then take the
your VAT
=IF(C3="Apple","Yes","No")
otherwise
reuse
sum ofthem
the
charges,
return
Dive a 0.
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only
workbook.have to 1
Next
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do itchangingin the
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Try
You
table canabovesee all
IF statement
place, and with another function
Yes
of
and theto No inyou
named
multiply itcan also force additional calculations to be performed if a certain condition is met. Here, we’re going to evaluate
IF
canstatements
cell use the
E33intothis see
ranges
by 1.25,
Delivery
the name
calculation
workbook
otherwise by 2
anywhere
change. in
going
return to
a 0”.
the workbook.
Formulas >
Name
Manager. Click
GOOD
3
here toTO learn KNOW
When
more. you create a formula, Excel will automatically place coloured borders around any ranges referenced in the formula, and
Previous
Next
Dive down for more detail
All about the IF function
All about the IFS function
Advanced IF statements
IF statement with another function

IF statements can also force additional calculations to be performed if a certain
condition is met. Here, we’re going to evaluate a cell to see if VAT should be charged,
and calculate it if the condition is true.
3
3
Previous

IF statements
tatements allow you to make logical comparisons between conditions. An IF statement generally says that if one condition is true, do som
IF statements allow you to make logical comparisons between conditions. An IF

statement generally says that if one condition is true, do something, otherwise do
PORTANT DETAIL else. The formulas can return text, values or even more calculations.
something
UE and FALSE are unlike other words in Excel formulas in that they don’t need to be in quotes, and Excel will automatically capitalise them.
C3="Apple","Yes","No")
e down for more detail
1 In cell D9 enter =IF(C9="Apple",TRUE,FALSE). The correct answer is TRUE.
tatement with another function
tatements can also force additional calculations to be performed if a certain condition is met. Here, we’re going to evaluate a cell to see if
2 Copy D9 to D10. The answer here should be FALSE, because an orange is
not an apple.
3 Try another example by looking at the formula in cell D12. We’ve got you
OD TO KNOW started with =IF(C12<100,"Less than 100","Greater than or equal to
en you create a formula, Excel will automatically place coloured borders around any ranges referenced in the formula, and the correspond
100"). What happens if you enter a number greater than or equal to 100
in cell C12?

about the IF function
about the IFS function
vanced IF statements
IF statement with another function

IF statements can also force additional calculations to be performed if a certain
condition is met. Here, we’re going to evaluate a cell to see if VAT should be charged,
and calculate it if the condition is true.
1 In cell F33, we’ve entered =IF(E33="Yes",F31*VAT,0), where we’ve set up

VAT as a Named Range with a value of 0.0825. Our formula says If cell E33
equals Yes, then multiply cell F31 by VAT, otherwise return a 0.
Try changing Yes to No in cell E33 to see the calculation change.
2 Next, we’ve added an IF statement to calculate delivery if it’s required. In

cell F35, you’ll see =IF(E35="Yes",SUM(D28:D29)*1.25,0). This says “If
cell E35 is Yes, then take the sum of the Quantity column in the table above
and multiply it by 1.25, otherwise return a 0”.
3 Next, change the 1.25 in the formula in cell F35 to “Delivery”. As you start
typing, Excel’s auto-correct, should find it for you. When it does, press Tab
to enter it. This is a Named Range, and we’ve entered it from Formulas >
Define Name. Now, if you ever need to change your VAT charges, you
only have to do it in one place, and you can use the Delivery name
3 Next, change the 1.25 in the formula in cell F35 to “Delivery”. As you start
typing, Excel’s auto-correct, should find it for you. When it does, press Tab
to enter it. This is a Named Range, and we’ve entered it from Formulas >
Define Name. Now, if you ever need to change your VAT charges, you
only have to do it in one place, and you can use the Delivery name
anywhere in the workbook.
Previous Next

All about the IF function
All about the IFS function
Advanced IF statements

s that if one condition is true, do something, otherwise do something else. The formulas can return text, values or even more calculations
cel will automatically capitalise them. Numbers don’t need to be in quotes either. Regular text, like Yes or No, needs to be in quotes like th
IF statements
Apple
Orange
50 Less than 100

IMPORTANT DETAIL
TRUE and FALSE are unlike other words in Excel formulas
ed in the formula, and theincorresponding ranges
that they don’t need in
tothe
be informula
quotes,will
and beExcel
the same
will colour. You can see this if you select cell F33 and press F2
automatically capitalise them. Numbers don’t need to be
in quotes either. Regular text, such as Yes or No, does
need to be in quotes like this:
=IF(C3="Apple","Yes","No")
Item Quantity Cost Total

Widget 2 £9.76 £19.52
Doohickey 3 £3.42 £10.26
Sub-Total £13.18 £29.78

GOOD TO KNOW
When you create a formula, Excel will autom
VAT? Yes £2.46 place coloured borders around any ranges
referenced in the formula, and the correspon
Delivery? Yes £6.25 ranges in the formula will be the same colour
can see this if you select cell F33 and press F2
the formula.
Total £38.48
EXPERT TIP
Named Ranges allow you to define terms or values in a
single place, and then reuse them throughout a
workbook. You can see all of the named ranges in this
workbook by going to Formulas > Name Manager.
Click here to learn more.
EXPERT TIP
Named Ranges allow you to define terms or values in a
single place, and then reuse them throughout a
workbook. You can see all of the named ranges in this
workbook by going to Formulas > Name Manager.
Click here to learn more.
alues or even more calculations.
No, needs to be in quotes like this:
you select cell F33 and press F2 to edit the formula.
KNOW
eate a formula, Excel will automatically
ed borders around any ranges
n the formula, and the corresponding
formula will be the same colour. You
f you select cell F33 and press F2 to edit
still want to
existing
suppress the
In cell D22,
VLOOKUP
#N/A
enter error,
formula
you like
can use
=VLOOKUP(C2
this in cell
an error
2,C17:D20,2,F
D43:
handling
ALSE). The
function called
correct
=IF(C43="","",
IFERROR in
answer
VLOOKUP(C43 for
cell
ApplesG43: is 50.
,C37:D41,2,FA
=IFERROR(VLO
VLOOKUP
LSE))
VLOOKUP
looked
Now,
Apples,
VLOOKUP
OKUP(F43,F37
VLOOKUP forfor
try
:G41,2,FALSE),
found
is one of the most widely used functions in Excel (and one of our favourites too!). VLOOKUP lets you look up a value
yourself
This
""). saysinthat
IFERROR the
it,
Meat
if then
cell went
=VLOOKUP(A1,B:C,2,FALSE)
section,
C43
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in cellone
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What G22.
do VLOOKUP
nothing is one of the most widely used functions in Excel (and one of our
VLOOKUP
column
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and too!). VLOOKUP
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then
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=VLOOKUP(F2
nothing, returns
you want information in another column to the right if it finds a match. VLOOKUP says:
to look for it?
display
amount. that,
2,F17:G20,2,F
otherwise
Do you want an exact or approximate match?
otherwise,
ALSE).
return
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results.
EXPERIMENT
We Note
displayed
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Try selecting
nothing here different items from the drop-down lists. You’ll see the result cells instantly update themselves with new values.
closing
(""), but youfor more detail
Dive down
parenthesis
can also use at
Next
the end of(0,1,
numbers the
formula.
VLOOKUP
2 This
and
etc.), or text, #N/A
Invariably,
closes you’ll run into a situation where VLOOKUP can’t find what you asked it to, and it returns an error (#N/A). Sometime
such asthe IF
statement.
“Formula isn’tDETAIL
IMPORTANT
correct”. is what’s known as a blanket error handler, meaning it will suppress any error your formula might throw. This can cau
IFERROR
A rule of thumb is to not add error handlers to your formulas until you’re absolutely certain they work properly.
Previous
Next
All about the VLOOKUP function
1
All about the INDEX/MATCH functions
All about the IFERROR function
Use PivotTables to analyse worksheet data
2 online
Free Excel training
VLOOKUP and #N/A

Invariably, you’ll run into a situation where VLOOKUP can’t find what you asked it to,
and it returns an error (#N/A). Sometimes, it’s because the lookup value simply
doesn’t exist, or it can because the reference cell doesn’t have a value yet.
1
2
Previous

VLOOKUP
OOKUP is one of the most widely used functions in Excel (and one of our favourites too!). VLOOKUP lets you look up a value in a column on
OOKUP(A1,B:C,2,FALSE)
VLOOKUP
at do you want to is one
look of the most widely used functions in Excel (and one of our
for?
ou find it, how many columns to thelets
favourites too!). VLOOKUP rightyou lookwant
do you up atovalue
get ainvalue?
a column on the left, then
ere doreturns
you wantinformation in another column to the right if it finds a match. VLOOKUP says:
to look for it?
you want an exact or approximate match?
What do you If you find it, how many
want to look columns to the right do
ERIMENT for? you want to get a value?
selecting different items from the drop-down lists. You’ll see the result cells instantly update themselves with new values.
OOKUP
ariably,and =VLOOKUP(A1,B:C,2,FALSE)
#N/A
you’ll run into a situation where VLOOKUP can’t find what you asked it to, and it returns an error (#N/A). Sometimes, it’s because t
PORTANT DETAIL
RROR is what’s known as a blanket error handler, meaning it will suppress any error your formula might throw. This can cause problems if
Where do Do you want
ule of thumb is to not add error handlers to your formulas until an
you want to exactabsolutely
you’re or certain they work properly.
look for it? approximate
match?

about the VLOOKUP function
1 In cell D22,
about the INDEX/MATCH
enter =VLOOKUP(C22,C17:D20,2,FALSE). The correct answer
functions
for Apples is 50. VLOOKUP looked for Apples, found it, then went over one
about the IFERROR function
column to the right and returned the amount.
PivotTables to analyse worksheet data
2 online
e Excel training Now, try for yourself in the Meat section, in cell G22. You should end up
with =VLOOKUP(F22,F17:G20,2,FALSE).
VLOOKUP and #N/A

Invariably, you’ll run into a situation where VLOOKUP can’t find what you asked it to,
and it returns an error (#N/A). Sometimes, it’s because the lookup value simply
doesn’t exist, or it can because the reference cell doesn’t have a value yet.
1 If you know your lookup value exists, but want to hide the error if the lookup
cell is blank, you can use an IF statement. In this case, we’ll wrap our existing
VLOOKUP formula like this in cell D43:
=IF(C43="","",VLOOKUP(C43,C37:D41,2,FALSE))
If you know your lookup value exists, but want to hide the error if the lookup
cell is blank, you can use an IF statement. In this case, we’ll wrap our existing
VLOOKUP formula like this in cell D43:
=IF(C43="","",VLOOKUP(C43,C37:D41,2,FALSE))
This says, “If cell C43 equals nothing (""), then return nothing, otherwise
return the VLOOKUP’s results”. Note the second closing parenthesis at the
end of the formula. This closes the IF statement.
2 If you aren’t sure your lookup value exists, but you still want to suppress
the #N/A error, you can use an error handling function called IFERROR in
cell G43: =IFERROR(VLOOKUP(F43,F37:G41,2,FALSE),""). IFERROR says,
“If the VLOOKUP returns a valid result, then display that, otherwise, display
nothing ("")”. We displayed nothing here (""), but you can also use numbers
(0,1, 2 etc.), or text, such as “Formula isn’t correct”.
Previous Next

All about the VLOOKUP function
All about the INDEX/MATCH functions
All about the IFERROR function
Use PivotTables to analyse worksheet data

ets you look up a value in a column on the left, then returns information in another column to the right if it finds a match. VLOOKUP says:
elves with new values.
rror (#N/A). Sometimes, it’s because the lookup value simply doesn’t exist, or it can because the reference cell doesn’t have a value yet.

Apples 50 Beef 50
Bananas 60 Pork 10
Lemons 40 Fish 50
Apples Pork
EXPERIMENT
Try selecting different items from the drop-down lists.
You’ll see the result cells instantly update themselves with
new values.
If the SUM function in cell D42 could talk, it would say this: Sum up the values in cells D38, D39, D40 and D41.
Bread 50 Bread 50
Cakes 50 Cakes 50
Pies 20 Pies 20
#N/A Pastry
IMPORTANT DETAIL
IFERROR is what’s known as a blanket error handler, meaning
it will suppress any error your formula might throw. This can
cause problems if Excel is giving you a notification that your
formula has a legitimate error that needs to be fixed.
A rule of thumb is to not add error handlers to your formulas

until you’re absolutely certain they work properly.
ds a match. VLOOKUP says:
doesn’t have a value yet.

Conditional functions – SUMIF
Conditional functions let you sum, average, count or get the min. or max. of a range based on a given condition, or cr
SUMIF lets you sum in one range based on a specific criteria you look for in another range, like how many Apples y
Conditional functions let you sum, average, count or get the min. or max. of a range
=SUMIF(C3:C14,C17,D3:D4)
based on a given condition, or criteria you specify. Such as: out of all the fruits in the
Which range do you want to look at?
list, how many are apples? Or, how many oranges are the Florida type?
What value
EXPERT TIP (text or number) do you want to look for?
Each
For onematch
each of found, which range
SUMIFS
the Fruitisand the same as SUMIF, but itdo
letsyou
youwant
use to sum in?
multiple criteria. So in this example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead o
Type cells has
1
a=SUMIFS(H3:H14,F3:F14,F17,G3:G14,G17)
drop-down
COUNTIFS is
list
the
Whichwhere
same youdo you want to sum?
as
range
can
SUMIF,
This select
is butfirst
it range to look in for matches
This is the
different the
lets
secondyourange
use
This
fruits.is Try
multiple
to look the criteria for the first match
it,
in for
and
matchesSo the
watch
criteria. in
formulas
this example,
This is the
automatically criteria for the second match
you can look
update.
for Fruit and
Type,
Dive downinstead for more detail
of just by
Next
Fruit.step
Select
Conditional
cell H64 andfunctions – COUNTIF
type
COUNTIF and COUNTIFS let you count values in a range based on a criterion you specify. They’re a bit different from the other
=COUNTIFS(F5
Select cell D64 and type =COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64). COUNTIF is structured like this:
0:F61,F64,G50
=COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64)
:G61,G64).
COUNTIFS
Which range is do you want to look at?
structured like
What value 2
this: (text or number) do you want to look for?
=COUNTIFS(F50:F61,F64,G50:G61,G64)
You’ve already seen SUMIF, SUMIFS, COUNTIF and COUNTIFS. Now you can try on your own with the other functions, such as
This is the first range to count
This is the
SUMIF criteria for the first match
=SUMIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103)
SUMIFS =SUMIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
This is the second range to count
AVERAGEIF =AVERAGEIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103)
This is criteria for the second match
AVERAGEIFS=AVERAGEIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D92,D106)
Dive down=COUNTIF(C92:C103,C106)
COUNTIF for more detail
COUNTIFS
Next =COUNTIFS(C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
MAXIFS =MAXIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C10,D92:D103,D106)
More
MINIFSconditional functions
=MINIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
=SUMIFS(H3:H14,F3:F14,F17,G3:G14,G17)
Next
SUMIF with a value argument
Here’s an example of the SUMIF function using greater than (>) to find all values greater than a given amount:
=SUMIF(D118:D122,">50")
Sum up some values based on this criterion:

....Look through these cells...
...and if the value is greater than 50, sum it up.

NOTE: If you find you are making a lot of conditional formulas, you might find that a PivotTable is a better solution. See this Piv
More information on thedown
Dive web for more detail
All about the SUMIF function
All about the SUMIFS function
All about the COUNTIF function
Conditional functions – COUNTIF
All about the COUNTIFS function
All about the AVERAGEIF function
All about the AVERAGEIFS
COUNTIF function let you count values in a range based on a criterion you
and COUNTIFS
All about the MINIFS
specify. function
They’re a bit different from the other IF and IFS functions, in that they only
All about the MAXIFS function
have a criteria range and criteria. They don’t evaluate one range then look in another
Create a drop-down list
to summarise.
Back to top 1
Next
More conditional functions

You’ve already seen SUMIF, SUMIFS, COUNTIF and COUNTIFS. Now you can try on
your own with the other functions, such as AVERAGEIF/S, MAXIFS, MINIFS. They’re
all structured the same way, so once you get one formula written, you can just
replace the function name with the one you want. We’ve written all the functions
you’ll need for cell E106, so you can copy/paste these, or try to type them yourself for
practice.
SUMIF =SUMIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103)
AVERAGEIFS =AVERAGEIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D92,D106)
COUNTIF =COUNTIF(C92:C103,C106)
COUNTIFS =COUNTIFS(C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
MINIFS =MINIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)

Here’s an example of the SUMIF function using greater than (>) to find all values
greater than a given amount:
Sum up some
values based
on this
criterion:
=SUMIF(D118:D122,">50")
NOTE: If you find you are making a lot of conditional formulas, you might find that a
PivotTable is a better solution. See this PivotTable article for more information.

Back to top
nditional functions – SUMIF
nditional functions let you sum, average, count or get the min. or max. of a range based on a given condition, or cr
MIF lets you sum in one range based on a specific criteria you look for in another range, like how many Apples y
Conditional functions let you sum, average, count or get the min. or max. of a range
UMIF(C3:C14,C17,D3:D4)
based on a given condition, or criteria you specify. Such as: out of all the fruits in the
ich range do you want to look at?
list, how many are apples? Or, how many oranges are the Florida type?
at value (text or number) do you want to look for?
eachismatch
MIFS found,
the same which range
as SUMIF, but itdo
letsyou
youwant
use to sum in?
multiple criteria. So in this example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead of just by Fruit.
1 SUMIF lets you sum in one range based on a specific criteria you look for
in another range, like how many Apples you have. Select cell D17 and type
UMIFS(H3:H14,F3:F14,F17,G3:G14,G17)
ich range do you=SUMIF(C3:C14,C17,D3:D14).
want to sum? SUMIF is structured like this:
s is the first range to look in for matches
Which range do you
s is the criteria for the first match For each match found, which
want to look at? range do you want to sum in?
s is the criteria for the second match
=SUMIF(C3:C14,C17,D3:D4)
nditional functions – COUNTIF

UNTIF and COUNTIFS let you count values in a range
What valuebased
(text on a criterion you specify. They’re a bit different from the other IF and IFS func
or number)
ect cell D64 and type =COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64). COUNTIF
do you want toislook
structured
for? like this:
OUNTIF(C50:C61,C64)
ich range do you want to look at?
at value 2 SUMIFS
(text or number)isdo theyou
same
wantastoSUMIF, but it lets you use multiple criteria. So in this
look for?
example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead of just by Fruit. Select cell
H17 and type =SUMIFS(H3:H14,F3:F14,F17,G3:G14,G17). SUMIFS is
OUNTIFS(F50:F61,F64,G50:G61,G64)
’ve already seen SUMIF, SUMIFS,
structured COUNTIF and COUNTIFS. Now you can try on your own with the other functions, such as AVERAGEIF/S, M
s is the first range to countlike this:
s is the
MIF criteria for the firstWhich
matchrange
=SUMIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103) This is the This is the
MIFS =SUMIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
s is the second range to countdo you want criteria for criteria for
ERAGEIF =AVERAGEIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103)
to sum? the first the second
s is criteria for the second match
ERAGEIFS=AVERAGEIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D92,D106) match match
e down=COUNTIF(C92:C103,C106)
UNTIF for more detail
UNTIFS =COUNTIFS(C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
XIFS =MAXIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C10,D92:D103,D106)
re conditional
NIFS functions
=MINIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
=SUMIFS(H3:H14,F3:F14,F17,G3:G14,G17)
MIF with a value argument

e’s an example of the SUMIF function using This is the
greater Thisgreater
than (>) to find all values is the than a given amount:
UMIF(D118:D122,">50") first range to second range
look in for to look in for
matches matches
m up some values based on this criterion:
ook through these cells...
nd if the value is greater than 50, sum it up.

Next
Next
TE: If you find you are making a lot of conditional formulas, you might find that a PivotTable is a better solution. See this PivotTable article
re information on Divethedown
web for more detail
about the SUMIF function
about the SUMIFS function
about the COUNTIF function
Conditional functions – COUNTIF
about the COUNTIFS function
about the AVERAGEIF function
about the AVERAGEIFS
COUNTIF function let you count values in a range based on a criterion you
and COUNTIFS
about the MINIFS
specify. function
They’re a bit different from the other IF and IFS functions, in that they only
about the MAXIFS function
have a criteria range and criteria. They don’t evaluate one range then look in another
ate a drop-down list
to summarise.
1 Select cell D64 and type =COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64). COUNTIF is structured
like this:
Which range do you

want to look at?
=COUNTIF(C50:C61,C64)
What value (text or number)

do you want to look for?
2 COUNTIFS is the same as SUMIF, but it lets you use multiple criteria. So in
this example, you can look for Fruit and Type, instead of just by Fruit. Select
cell H64 and type =COUNTIFS(F50:F61,F64,G50:G61,G64). COUNTIFS is
structured like this:
This is the first This is the second

range to count range to count
This is the criteria This is criteria for

for the first match the second match

You’ve already seen SUMIF, SUMIFS, COUNTIF and COUNTIFS. Now you can try on
your own with the other functions, such as AVERAGEIF/S, MAXIFS, MINIFS. They’re
all structured the same way, so once you get one formula written, you can just
replace the function name with the one you want. We’ve written all the functions
you’ll need for cell E106, so you can copy/paste these, or try to type them yourself for
practice.
SUMIF =SUMIF(C92:C103,C106,E92:E103)
AVERAGEIFS =AVERAGEIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D92,D106)
COUNTIF =COUNTIF(C92:C103,C106)
COUNTIFS =COUNTIFS(C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)
MINIFS =MINIFS(E92:E103,C92:C103,C106,D92:D103,D106)

Next

Here’s an example of the SUMIF function using greater than (>) to find all values
greater than a given amount:
Sum up some ....Look through ...and if the

values based these cells... value is
on this greater than
criterion: 50, sum it up.
=SUMIF(D118:D122,">50")
NOTE: If you find you are making a lot of conditional formulas, you might find that a
PivotTable is a better solution. See this PivotTable article for more information.

All about the SUMIF function All about the SUMIFS function
All about the SUMIF function All about the SUMIFS function
All about the COUNTIF function All about the COUNTIFS function
All about the AVERAGEIF function All about the AVERAGEIFS function
All about the MINIFS function All about the MAXIFS function
Create a drop-down list Free Excel training online
Back to top Next step

Fruit Amount Fruit Type Amount
Apples 50 Apples Fuji 50
Oranges 20 Oranges Florida 20
Bananas 60 Bananas Cavendish 60
Lemons 40 Lemons Rough 40
Apples 50 Apples Honeycrisp 50
Oranges 20 Oranges Navel 20
Bananas 60 Bananas Lady Finger 60
Lemons 40 Lemons Eureka 40
Fruit SUMIF Fruit Type SUMIFS

Apples Oranges Florida
fferent from the other IF and IFS functions, in that they only have a criteria range and criteria. They don’t
EXPERT evaluate one range then look in
TIP
Each one of the Fruit and Type cells has
a drop-down list where you can select
different fruits. Try it, and watch the
formulas automatically update.
her functions, such as AVERAGEIF/S, MAXIFS, MINIFS. They’re all structured the same way, so once you get one formula written, you can j
er solution. See this PivotTable article for more information.
Fruit Amount Fruit Type Amount

Apples 50 Apples Fuji 50
Oranges 20 Oranges Florida 20
Lemons 40 Lemons Rough 40
Bananas 60 Bananas Lady Finger 60
Fruit COUNTIF Fruit Type COUNTIFS

Apples 3 Oranges Florida 1
Fruit Type Amount
Apples Fuji 50
Oranges Florida 20
Bananas Cavendish 60
Lemons Rough 40
Apples Honeycrisp 50
Oranges Navel 20
Bananas Lady Finger 60
Lemons Eureka 40
Apples Honeycrisp 50
Oranges Navel 20
Bananas Cavendish 60
Lemons Eureka 40
Fruit Type Try it

Lemons Eureka 80
Item Amount
Bread 50
Doughnuts 100
Cookies 40
Cakes 50
Pies 20
100
aluate one range then look in another to summarise.
Fruit and Type cells has
where you can select
ry it, and watch the
atically update.
one formula written, you can just replace the function name with the one you want. We’ve written all the functions you’ll need for cell E10
nctions you’ll need for cell E106, so you can copy/paste these, or try to type them yourself for practice.
GOOD TO KNOW
Double-click this cell and you’ll see that the formula
is different. Specifically, the sum criteria is ">=50"
which means greater than or equal to 50. There are
other operators you can use like "<=50" which is
less than or equal to 50. And there’s "<>50" which is
not equal to 50.
the
As you Search
enter for
aeach
function box,
section,
and press GO.
the criteria for
When you see
each argument
VLOOKUP
is listed at the
highlighted,
GOOD
bottomTO of the
click
form.OK
KNOW at the
Press OK
bottom.
As
when When
youyou’ve
enter
you
each selectand
finished, a
function
argument’s
Excel will in the
enter
Let
TAKE
list,
If
AT you
the
section,
the Let the Function Wizard guide you
A Function
LOOK
Excel
formula
THIS
display know
argument’s
for you. its
will
the the
Wizard guide you
name of the function you want, but you aren’t sure how to build it, you can use the Function Wizard to help y
You
syntax.should
description will
end up with
be displayed
=VLOOKUP(C1
towards the
0,C5:D8,2,FALSIf you know the name of the function you want, but you aren’t sure how to build it,
bottom ofyou the can use the Function Wizard to help you out.
E)
form, above
GOOD TO KNOW
the Formula
You
result. type1cell and range references, or select them with your mouse.
can
Previous
Next
2 (by category)
Excel functions
Previous

Let the Function Wizard guide you
the Function Wizard guide you
ou know the name of the function you want, but you aren’t sure how to build it, you can use the Function Wizard to help you out.
If you know the name of the function you want, but you aren’t sure how to build it,
you can use the Function Wizard to help you out.
OD TO KNOW
can type1cell and range
Select references,
cell D10, thenorgo
select them with >
to Formulas your mouse.
Insert Function > type VLOOKUP
in the Search for a function box, and press GO. When you see VLOOKUP
highlighted, click OK at the bottom. When you select a function in the list,
Excel will display its syntax.
rview of formulas in Excel
2 (byNext,
el functions category)
enter the function arguments in their respective text boxes. As you
el functions (alphabetical)
enter each one, Excel will evaluate it, and show you its result, with the final
e Excel training result
online at the bottom. Press OK when you’ve finished, and Excel will enter
the formula for you.
GOOD TO KNOW
As you enter each argum
description will be displa
form, above the Formula
Previous Next


ction Wizard to help you out.
Fruit Amount
Apples 50
Oranges 20
Bananas 60
Lemons 40
Apples 50
TAKE A LOOK AT THIS

You should end up with
=VLOOKUP(C10,C5:D8,2,FALSE)
GOOD TO KNOW
You can type cell and range references, or select them
with your mouse.
GOOD TO KNOW
As you enter each argument’s section, the argument’s
description will be displayed towards the bottom of the
form, above the Formula result.
Fixing
At some Fixing formula errors
formula errors
point in time, you’ll run across a formula that has an error, which Excel will display with #ErrorName. Errors can be he
GOOD TO
Error checking – Go to Formulas > Error Checking. This will load a dialogue that will tell you the general cause for your specific
KNOW
Clicking At some point in time, you’ll run across a formula that has an error, which Excel will
If you click Help on this Error, a help topic specific to the error message will open. If you click Show Calculation Steps, an Evalu
display
Options will let with #ErrorName. Errors can be helpful, because they point out when something’s
you set thenot
Each
rules time youworking
for when
correctly,
click Evaluate, but
Excel willthey
stepcan be challenging
through toone
the formula fix. Fortunately, thereItare
section at a time. several
won’t necessarily tell you why an err
options
errors in Excel that can help you track down the source of the error and fix it.
EXPERIMENT
are displayed
What’s wrong 1
or ignored. here? Hint: We’re trying to SUM up all the items.
Previous
Next
Detect errors in formulas
How to avoid broken formulas
Evaluate a nested formula one step at a time
3
Previous

ng
ome Fixing formula errors
formula errors
point in time, you’ll run across a formula that has an error, which Excel will display with #ErrorName. Errors can be helpful, because t
r checking – Go to Formulas > Error Checking. This will load a dialogue that will tell you the general cause for your specific error. In cell D9
At some point in time, you’ll run across a formula that has an error, which Excel will
ou click Help on this Error, a help topic specific to the error message will open. If you click Show Calculation Steps, an Evaluate Formula dia
display with #ErrorName. Errors can be helpful, because they point out when something’s
h timenot
youworking correctly,
click Evaluate, but
Excel willthey
stepcan be challenging
through the formula toone
fix. Fortunately, thereItare
section at a time. several
won’t necessarily tell you why an error has occurred,
options that can help you track down the source of the error and fix it.
ERIMENT
at’s wrong 1here? Error
Hint: We’re
checkingtrying
– Goto SUM up all the>items.
to Formulas Error Checking. This will load a dialogue
that will tell you the general cause for your specific error. In cell D9, the #N/A
error is caused because there is no value matching “Apple”. You can fix this
by using a value that does exist, suppress the error with IFERROR or ignore it
re information onandthe know
web it will go away when you do use a value that exists.
ect errors in formulas
w to avoid broken formulas
uate a nested formula one step at a time
2 If you click Help on this Error, a help topic specific to the error message
will open. If you click Show Calculation Steps, an Evaluate Formula
dialogue will load.
3 Each time you click Evaluate, Excel will step through the formula one
section at a time. It won’t necessarily tell you why an error has occurred,
but it will point out where. From there, look at the help topic to deduce
what went wrong with your formula.
Each time you click Evaluate, Excel will step through the formula one
section at a time. It won’t necessarily tell you why an error has occurred,
but it will point out where. From there, look at the help topic to deduce
what went wrong with your formula.
Previous Next

Detect errors in formulas
How to avoid broken formulas
Evaluate a nested formula one step at a time

ame. Errors can be helpful, because they point out when something’s not working correctly, but they can be challenging to fix. Fortunatel
Fruit Amount
Apples 50
Oranges 20
Bananas 60
Lemons 40
Apple #N/A
GOOD TO KNOW
Clicking Options will let you set the
rules for when errors in Excel are
displayed or ignored.
Fruit Amount
Apples 50
Oranges 20
Bananas 60
Lemons 40
Total #NAME?
EXPERIMENT
What’s wrong here? Hint: We’re trying to
SUM up all the items.
e challenging to fix. Fortunately, there are several options that can help you track down the source of the error and fix it.
ror and fix it.
Have more questions about Excel?
Press ALT+Q and type what you want to know.
Keep going. There is more to learn with Excel:
Community: Ask questions and connect with other Excel fans.

What else is new?Office 365 subscribers get continual updates and new features.
Give us feedback on this tour
Press ALT+Q and type what you want to know.
Community: Ask questions and connect with other Excel fans.

What else is new?Office 365 subscribers get continual updates and new features.
Give us feedback on this tour
Community What else is new?

Ask questions and Office 365 subscribers
connect with other get continual updates
Excel fans. and new features.
Learn more Learn more

hat else is new?
ice 365 subscribers
continual updates
d new features.
arn more

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Get started with formul

More information on the web

Add, select cell F3, type =C3+C4, then press Enter.

Divide, select cell F6, type =C3/C4, then press Enter.

re about formulas, cells and ranges

Use Excel as a calculator

Overview of formulas in Excel

Excel functions (by category)

Excel functions (alphabetical)

Free Excel training online

Division (/) 0.5

he values a function uses to calculate) wrapped in parentheses.

=A1+B1 =10+20 constants aren’t a good practice. Why? Because

Opening parenthesis Closing parenthesis. Excel will usually add this

he yellow cell with 12 below. You’ll

d calculate the result.

More about functions

Now, let’s try one that doesn’t require any arguments.

More information on the web

Free Excel training online

More about functions

The function The first Additional

Now, let’s try one that doesn’t require any arguments.

The TODAY function returns today’s date. It will

More information on the web

Use AutoSum to sum numbers

All about the COUNT function

Free Excel training online

Back to top Next step

e Excel training online

Item Amount Item Amount

Total: Additional Value New Total

Links for more information on the web

More information on the web

vate the previous sheet

More information on the web

All about the MEDIAN function

All about the MODE function

Free Excel training online

Item Amount Item Amount

MEDIAN gives you the value in

More about the SUM function

More information on the web

MIN and MAX functions

More information on the web

More information on the web

about the MIN function

More information on the web

re information on the web

Item Amount Item Amount

More information on the web

2 Add up hours between times – In cell D36 we’ve entered =((D35-D32)-

The inner parentheses () make sure Excel calculates those

More information on the web

All about the NOW function

All about the DATE function

Free Excel training online

many days away it is by using =D7-D6 in cell D8.

Daily Hours Worked

- Time Out)-(Lunch In - Lunch Out))*24.

Using text and numbers together

More information on the web

ell E3, There

e down for more