A formula is an expression in a cell that begins with the equal sign =. Formulas can contain functions, values, cell addresses, names, and operators.
A function is a predefined formula in an application that requires arguments to operate.
Basic syntax rules
–A formula always begins with the equal sign =.
–All opening and closing parentheses must be consistent.
–Mandatory arguments of the functions used must be specified.
–Constants must not contain the $ symbol.
–For the Cell and Info functions, enter text parameters in English, enclosing them in double quotes and using the ; delimiter.
•Example: =Cell("contents"; A2)
•Example: =Info("system")
Visual highlighting
During formula entry, the cells used are highlighted in color. The frame and fill color corresponds to the color of the cell reference in the formula.
The active cell (the cursor is in its address or the cell is selected on the sheet) is highlighted with a solid frame, inactive cells are highlighted with a dotted frame.
Hints and autocompletion
When you enter a formula, a drop-down list of hints appears with the names of: functions, named ranges or tables.
The prompts are sorted alphabetically. If the names are repeated, the address (Book/Sheet) is displayed next to them.
View partial result
To view the result of calculating a portion of a formula, select that portion in the formula bar or in a cell. A pop-up window with the calculated value will appear above the formula.
Quick navigation
The cell in which you enter a formula or function is always visible on the worksheet. To quickly navigate to it from another sheet, press its address or the Enter key.