2 Formulas and Cell References Free Online FlashCards

What character begins a spreadsheet formula?

A spreadsheet formula begins with an equals sign (=).

What does a cell reference identify?

A cell reference identifies a cell using its column letter and row number, such as A2.

How is a cell range written?

A colon separates the first and last cells in a range, as in A2:A10.

What does =SUM(B2:B10) calculate?

SUM adds the values in its referenced cells or range; for example, =SUM(B2:B10) totals B2 through B10.

In a formula, what do parentheses clarify?

Parentheses make the addition happen first: = (A2+B2)*C2 adds A2 and B2, then multiplies by C2. (Enter the formula without the space after the equals sign.)

What happens to a relative reference when its formula is copied?

A relative reference adjusts when a formula is copied. Copying =A2*B2 from C2 to C3 changes it to =A3*B3.

What makes $F$1 an absolute reference?

An absolute reference stays fixed when copied. The dollar signs in $F$1 lock both its column and row.

In A$2, which part of the reference is locked?

A$2 locks row 2 while allowing the column to change when copied.

When should a tax-rate reference be absolute?

Use an absolute reference such as $F$1 for an input that should stay fixed, such as a tax rate, while copying a formula.

What should you inspect when checking a formula?

Check both the referenced inputs and the formula bar: confirm the inputs are intended values and inspect the operators, parentheses, references, and function arguments.

How can a known example help verify a formula?

Test a simple case by hand and compare it with the spreadsheet. For example, a price of 12 and quantity of 3 should give 36.

What can cause the #DIV/0! error?

#DIV/0! indicates division by zero or a blank divisor.