Using Functions in Excel

Review

A FUNCTION is a built in formula that is a shortcut for common

calculations.

Example: =SUM(A1:A20)

Types of Functions

Excel places functions in various categories

Common Functions

In this class we will use a few common functions

Common Functions

SUM - Adds the contents in the range of the function

PRODUCT – Multiplies the contents in the range of the function

QUOTIENT – Divides the contents in the range of the function

AVERAGE – Finds the average of the content in the range

MAX – Finds the largest value in the range of the function

MIN – Finds the lowest value in the range of the function

ABS – Returns the absolute value of a number

Common Functions

There is NO function for subtraction in excel

Using Functions

Functions can be used in the same ways that formulas are used

Using Functions

Calculation for numbers by themselves.

Example: Gives the sum of the numbers 1 and 3

=SUM(1,3)

Using Functions

Calculation for numbers and cells.

Example: Gives the sum of cell A1 and the number 3

=SUM(a1,3)

Using Functions

Calculation for cells.

Example: Gives the sum for the range of cells a1 through c1

=SUM(a1:c1)

Using Functions

IMPORTANT!!

When using NUMBERS with functions; use a comma

=SUM(1,3)

When using cell references with function, use a colon

=SUM(a1:c1)