How to Use Microsoft Excel Formulas in 3 Simple Steps

Access the Formula Wizard

When you are in your spreadsheet, click on the cell you want to enter the formula into and type =. Formulas always start with a =. Next click on the formula icon in the top bar represented by the fx symbol.

Choose the Formula

The next window will show the available functions. You can choose your formula from the list if you already know what it is, or you can type the description into the box and see which formula Excel recommends.

Insert Function Arguments

You will be taken to a new window, sometimes called the formula palette, where you have to input the data from your spreadsheet. The wizard tells you what information needs to be inserted. 

– Next to the argument click on the grid icon with the red arrow to be taken to your spreadsheet.

• Select the data from the cells in your spreadsheet.

The formula palette will show you a description of the formula in the window, as well as an example of the formula and the result at the bottom so that you can check your information easily.