Spreadsheets- Advanced Calculations

Using Cell References in Formulas

You can also create formulas using cell references. Cells have cell names, such as A1, C4, Z23, etc. Cell references refer to the values contained within a particular cell. You can use cell references in conjunction with numbers, mathematical operations, and built-in functions. You can specify a cell reference by typing in the cell name, by highlighting the individual cell using the mouse, or by highlighting the individual cell using the keyboard. The examples that use the mouse to highlight the cell; however, you can use whatever method with which you feel most comfortable.

1. Select the cell in which you want to enter the formula. We selected F3.
2. Type in an equal sign (=) to start the formula.

   

3. Click on the first cell containing one of the values you wish to include in your formula.
   We clicked on B3.
   1. The cell's name will appear in the formula bar.
   2. A flashing blue border will appear around the cell.
   3. You will also notice that the cell name in the referring cell also turns blue.

   

4. Enter a mathematical operation. We chose addition.

   

5. Click on the second cell containing a value you want to include in the formula.
   We clicked on C3.
   1. The cell's name will appear in the formula bar.
   2. A flashing colored border will appear around the cell.
   3. The cell name will in the referring cell will turn the same color as the flashing border.

   

6. Enter more mathematical operations and cell names as necessary.

   

7. Click on Enter.
8. The cell will display the calculated value.

   

9. Use the same procedure for entering formulas for subtraction, multiplication, and division. Remember: Make sure you type in the equal sign (=) before you enter the equation.

   Subtraction (-):    =C3-B3
   Multiplication (*): =F3*G3
   Division (/):       =G5/H5
   

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