Chapter 4

Chapter 4

1. Key terminology

   • Row: range of cells going across the spreadsheet
   • Column: range of cells going down the spreadsheet
   • Range: group of cells
   • Labels: text in a cell describing the data
   • Data: Any values that are entered into the cells
   • Functions: built in formulas that are too complex for the user to type in
   • Variables:an identifier associated with a particula cell, there will be a value
   • Formula: calculations typed in by the user
   • Bar charts:compares value
   • Pie chart:a total divided among a number of different catgories
   • Line graph: displays a trend by joining the plotted data with a line

2. Why are graphs used?: -information is understood quickly. -To show a relationship. -spot a trend. -comparisons can be made

3. Why are spreadsheets used for modelling?: -:less risk. -Safer and cheaper. -only requires one model to be created. - can be backed up and shared

4. Functions:

   • Sum: adds up a range of cells and gives a total
   • Max: Gives a maximum value from a set of numbers
   • Look up: Gives a value from array based on a given value
   • What If...:an attempt to find out what is going to happen if a variable is changed.
   • Disadvantages: may not be accurate representation (real world too complex). - if relating to personal choices, it may not be accurate.
     • Cont.: -variables need to be considered, some could be missed out, -time consuming and expensive
   • Advantages: Artifical recreation should behave the same as the real world, - AUTOMATIC RECALCULATION. -no additional software required
     • Cont.: -safer to run simulations, - Graphs can be used, - variables and constants can be used

5. Cell referencing

   • Absolute: a formula is repeated in another cell, instead of just dragging the fill handle, you need to change some of the cell references to absolute
   • Relative: When a cell is being referred to in a formula/ function and can be copied into another cell

6. How to replicate cells

   • -Use the fill handle, drag down across cells and it will intelligently work out the formula from the cells you have chosen