4. Entering Formulas

Worksheet

You can practice using this live spreadsheet:

 In order to enter a formula, you must first enter = ( + and - may also be used).  Without the +,-, = the cell is interpreted as a "label" or text, not as a numeric value.

Let's add 2 + 2 

In cell B3 type:
2 + 2
Notice the results, no calculation occurs because this cell is being interpreted as "labels".

Now go to cell C3 and type:
= 2 + 2
You should see the number 4.

Formulas can also reference other cells:
Go to cell C4 and type:
    = C3 + 5
You should see the number 9 in cell C4 (value of 4+5) 

Go to cell B4 and write a formula with reference to cell B3
You should see the error: #VALUE!
This means that cell B3 contains labels. Therefore, referenced cell must contain a value.

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