Simple Formula

A formula in a spreadsheet is a way to do calculations or process data using numbers, cell references, and functions. Think of it as a maths problem you write inside a cell, and spreadsheet solves it for you.

For example, if you have two numbers - 5 in one cell and 10 in another - you can type =5+10 into a new cell, and the spreadsheet will show 15 as the answer.
Instead of typing the literal numbers, you can use cell references, like =A1+B1, so the spreadsheet will automatically update the result when the numbers change.

We use formulas because they:

• Save time—no need to calculate things manually.

• Reduce mistakes—Excel follows the formula exactly.

• Make work easier—you can do complex calculations with just a few clicks.