Spreadsheets

Spreadsheets

1. Formulas

   • =A1+B1
     • The plus sign here adds up cells add up A1 and B1.
   • =A2-B2
     • The minus sign takes away B2 from A2.
   • =A3*B3
     • The asterisk sign multiplies A3 by B3.
   • =A4/B4
     • The forward slash sign divides A4 by B4.
   • When you replicate (drag) a formula down a spreadsheet, the cells in the formula will change depending on what row it is in.
   • =SUM(A1:E1) - This SUM function is used to add up the cells A1, E1 and everything in-between.
   • =AVERAGE(A1:E1) - AVERAGE will find the average of A1, E1 and everything in-between.

2. Benefits

   • When data changes, formulas automatically change.
   • Computers do not make mathematical errors like humans, but GIGO still applies.
   • Charts and graphs can be produced and customized very easily.
   • You can change information in a spreadsheet model to make and test predictions (what IF predictions).

3. Formatting

   • Coloured Borders, or lines, can be added to the edge of each cell.
   • Cells can be formatted according to their data type, e.g. cells with money can automatically have a pound sign placed in front by assigning a currency data type.
   • Cells can be merged or combined together, e.g. cells A1:C1 can merge to form one big cell of A1.
   • The font can be changed, e.g. font style, colour, bold or italics
   • The background fill tool can change the colour of the cells.