The richness of functions

Excel has a large number of functions, organized according to categories (mathematical, statistical, logical, informative, financial, functions for working with text, etc.). When we start typing the formula and choosing the desired function it automatically displays the syntax in the form of a tooltip that facilitates the input of the function arguments. We can also add functions by selecting a window to insert functions that will be further discussed in the text that follows …

There are several ways to enter a function. If we enter a data summation function or some other commonly used function, we can do this from the Autosum menu located in the Home ribbon. In addition to the frequently used functions at the bottom of this menu, there is also the More Functions option, which allows us to enter some other function. However, the more natural way to get a function is to click on the Formulas toolbar and select the Insert Function option. This can also be done by selecting the cell where we want to enter the function, and then pressing the SHIFT + F3 key combination. Any way to choose, Excel starts a new formula by entering the equals sign (=) and the Insert Function dialog box opens.

At the top of the dialog box, the Search for a function field appears first. If we know the name or part of the function name we can enter them in the field, and then we need to click the Go button to find Excel one or more functions that match the search criteria and display them in the list at the bottom of the window. Another way to fill the list is to search for functions by categories. This is done by opening a list of the Or select a category list, which offers the most frequently used functions (Most recently used), all categories (All), or to one of the existing categories, such as mathematics (Math & Trig), statistical , logical, text, date & time, and so on. Regardless of the selected action in the list at the bottom of the window, one or more functions should appear. By clicking on the name of the function you want, and then on the OK button, we continue to the dialog box for entering the function arguments.

Depending on the type of function, it can be without arguments, it can have one or more arguments. The function argument can be a value, address, address range, or some other function. Each function is different, but it’s important that you know that while entering arguments, Excel calculates the result and displays it at the bottom of the window. Also, if we incorrect when entering arguments, we will be warned about the type of error we made. If we need additional help in the lower left corner of the window, there is the Help on This function option that leads to the help menu for the entered function. By clicking OK, we end up with the entry of the function.

Insert Function is a useful option because it guides us all the time when entering function arguments. We can also use it to change the formula already entered, by positioning it on the formula, then by choosing this option, or using the shortcut SHIFT + F3.