Introduction to Formulas and Functions in Excel

Learn Formula & Function Basics!

What you'll learn

• Learn to build basic formulas using arithmetic, comparison, and text operators.
• Understand Excel’s order of operations and how to control it with parentheses.
• Practice using relative, absolute, and mixed references in cell formulas.
• Discover how to name ranges and apply them in formulas for clarity and reuse.
• Use advanced formulas with arrays, constants, and dynamic functions.
• Apply data validation and worksheet controls for more interactive sheets.
• Identify and fix common formula errors like #DIV/0! or #NAME?.
• Use IFERROR and auditing tools to manage and trace formula issues.
• Explore how Excel functions are structured and how to insert them properly.
• Activate the Analysis ToolPak to unlock additional statistical functions.

Requirements

• Microsoft Excel (Office 2021 or Microsoft 365) installed.
• Basic knowledge of Excel (e.g., entering data, simple calculations).
• Access to a computer with a stable internet connection.
• No prior advanced Excel skills required; suitable for beginners.

Description

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to building and managing formulas and functions in Microsoft Excel, specifically tailored for users of Office 2021 and Microsoft 365. Designed for students, professionals, and lifelong learners, it provides the foundational skills needed to become confident and efficient in working with data in Excel.

Starting with the essentials, students will learn how to construct basic formulas using arithmetic, comparison, text, and reference operators. The course covers critical concepts such as Excel’s order of operations (operator precedence), how to control it using parentheses, and how to efficiently enter, edit, copy, and move formulas. You'll also explore the difference between relative and absolute cell references, and how to use range names to make your formulas clearer and easier to manage.

As you progress, you'll delve into more advanced topics like array formulas and constants, multisheet data consolidation, data validation rules, and the use of form controls to create interactive spreadsheets. You’ll gain practical experience in troubleshooting formulas, understanding Excel’s various error messages (such as #DIV/0!, #NAME?, and #REF!), and applying built-in tools like IFERROR, the error checker, and formula auditing features.

In Chapter 4, the course introduces Excel functions—what they are, how they’re structured, and how to use the Insert Function tool effectively. Students will also learn how to access more advanced tools, such as the Analysis ToolPak, to prepare for more specialized calculations.

By the end of the course, learners will be able to write accurate, functional, and efficient formulas, troubleshoot errors, and confidently use Excel’s powerful built-in functions to handle a wide range of everyday tasks.

Who this course is for:

• This course is for Excel beginners looking to build a strong formula foundation.
• Ideal for professionals who want to boost productivity using Excel functions.
• Great for students in business, finance, or data analysis programs.
• Perfect for anyone needing to troubleshoot or audit Excel spreadsheets.
• Tailored for users transitioning to Excel 365 or Office 2021.
• Helpful for those managing data across multiple sheets or workbooks.
• A fit for users who want to automate tasks with named ranges and controls.
• Made for learners aiming to understand and apply array formulas.
• Designed for people needing to validate inputs and reduce errors in Excel.
• Useful for anyone wanting hands-on skills in building and managing formulas.