FUNCTIONS & FORMULAE

 

A formula is an equation entered into a spreadsheet. Functions are complex equations that have a "shortcut" name.

 

Functions are divided into 3 main categories

 

1.      ARITHMETIC       eg        SUM, ABS, ROUND, SQRT

 

Mathematical, scientific and business operations use arithmetic functions. The application program ( Works, Excel etc ) contains a library of arithmetic functions.

 

2.      STATISTICAL      eg        AVERAGE, COUNT, MAX, MIN

 

Large quantities of data can be processed statistically by using range statements eg =MAX(C5:C10) finds the maximum value in the range.

 

 

3.      LOGICAL             eg        IF, AND, NOT, OR

 

This allows decisions and tests to be made. Mini programs can operate within the spreadsheet.

 

 

 

Practical exercise

 

Draw up a table listing the functions available in the application program you are using.

 

Name of Application

 

ARITHMETIC	STATISTICAL	LOGICAL