Chapter 3

Enhancing Formulas with Functions

Understanding Excel Functions

A function is a predefined formula that accepts one or more inputs and then calculates a result. In Excel, a function is often called a worksheet function because you normally use it as part of a formula that you type in a worksheet cell. However, Excel enables you to use many of its worksheet functions in other parts of the program, such as VBA macros and the PivotTable formulas you create for calculated fields and items. This section introduces you to worksheet functions by showing you their advantages and structure and by examining a few other worksheet ideas that you should know.

Function Advantages

Functions are designed to take you beyond the basic arithmetic and ...

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