Entering spreadsheet formulas and functions

Entering a simple arithmetic formula

To enter a simple arithmetic formula:
1 Select the cell that will contain the formula.
2 Type an equal sign (=).
3 Type the numbers and arithmetic operators needed for your calculation. For example:
=3+4 returns a value of 7
=22-8 returns a value of 14
=8*5 returns a value of 40
=72/6 returns a value of 12
For complex calculations, use parentheses to indicate the order in which subcalculations should be performed.
4 Confirm your entry.

Including a function in a formula

To enter a function in a formula:
1 Click in the entry bar where you want to insert a function.
2 Choose Insert Function from the Edit menu, or click the Function button to the left of the entry bar.
3 Select a function, then click Insert.
4 Replace the argument names with values, cell references, or references to named cells or cell ranges.
5 Confirm your entry.

If AppleWorks displays a message telling you that the formula is incorrect:
Make sure you've deleted any ellipses (...), which indicate optional additional function arguments.

If you see heavy dots on either side of a cell value:
AppleWorks is indicating that the cell contains a circular reference (when formulas in two or more cells refer to each other or a cell refers to itself). Either correct the circular reference or turn off the Mark Circular Refs display option.

Controlling when AppleWorks performs calculations

When you enter a formula in a spreadsheet cell, AppleWorks calculates the result. As you work, calculated values are automatically updated whenever you make a change that affects the formula result.

In large or complex spreadsheets, you can speed up your work by turning off this automatic calculation feature.

To turn off automatic calculation:
Make sure Auto-Calculate is deselected in the Calculate menu.

To calculate values when automatic calculation is turned off:
Choose Calculate Now from the Calculate menu.

Related topics

  Using formulas and functions in a spreadsheet
About functions

 
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