Using cell names in formulas

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You could type =64+12. But if a number changes later, that answer is out of date.

keyboard Typing formulas is easiest on a computer with a keyboard.

A1
ABCD
1FirstSecondTotal
26412
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
64
12
Type to enter a value or a formula starting with =. F2 edits, F4 adds $ to a reference.
Study notes

In a bit more detail

  • Why use cell names instead of numbers?

    Instead of typing numbers into a formula, use the names of the cells that hold them: =A2+B2.

  • What happens when the data changes?

    Excel looks in those cells every time. Change the number in A2 and the answer updates by itself. You build the calculation once, and it keeps working when the data changes.

  • How do you put a cell name in a formula?

    Type it, or click the cell while you're writing the formula.

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