Your first formula

Write a formula that calculates from other cells and updates by itself when they change.

Beginner · 7 min · 8 steps

In this lesson

  • A formula starts with =. Without it, the cell shows your text instead of a result.
  • Use cell references (B2), not typed numbers, so the result updates when the numbers change.
  • + adds, - subtracts, * multiplies, / divides.

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Why your formula broke when you copied it

Lock a cell with $ so a formula keeps working when you copy it down.

Beginner · 7 min · Free, with no sign-up

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Skill
Formula basics
Stage
Beginner
Path
Excel basics in a weekend

Where it sits in Formula basics 10 lessons

And 4 more, up to Named ranges for readable formulas. See the whole skill

The steps

8 steps: 3 explanations, 3 Do this, 2 questions, then Your turn.

Try a free lesson first

Why your formula broke when you copied it

Lock a cell with $ so a formula keeps working when you copy it down.

Beginner · 7 min · Free, with no sign-up

Do the free lesson on your computer.

Send yourself the link and open it on a laptop or desktop.

On your computer, go tolearnford.com/go/GX5R