Google Sheets Formula Basics: A How-To Guide

Formulas are the backbone of Google Sheets, allowing you to perform calculations, manipulate data, and automate tasks. This guide will walk you through the basics of using formulas, complete with screenshots and examples.

1. Starting with the Equals Sign

Every formula in Google Sheets begins with an equals sign (=). This signals to the sheet that you're entering a formula, not just plain text.

Opens in a new window www.sheetai.app

 Google Sheet cell with =1+1 entered 

2. Basic Arithmetic Operators

Google Sheets uses standard mathematical operators:

• + for addition
• - for subtraction
• * for multiplication
• / for division
• ^ for exponents

You can combine these operators to create more complex calculations. For example:

= (A1 + B1) * C1

This formula adds the values in cells A1 and B1, then multiplies the result by the value in C1.

3. Cell References

Instead of directly entering numbers into your formulas, you can refer to other cells. This allows your formulas to dynamically update if the values in those cells change.

For example, =A1 + B1 adds the values in cells A1 and B1. If you change the number in A1, the result of the formula will automatically update.

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 Google Sheet with a formula referencing cells A1 and B1, and the result shown in another cell 

4. Functions

Functions are pre-built formulas that perform specific tasks. Google Sheets offers a wide range of functions for everything from basic math to complex data analysis.

Some common functions include:

• SUM: Adds a range of numbers. =SUM(A1:A10) adds the values in cells A1 through A10.
• AVERAGE: Calculates the average of a range of numbers. =AVERAGE(B1:B5) calculates the average of the values in cells B1 through B5.
• MAX: Returns the maximum value in a range. =MAX(C1:C8) finds the largest value in cells C1 through C8.
• MIN: Returns the minimum value in a range. =MIN(D1:D4) finds the smallest value in cells D1 through D4.
• Opens in a new window infoinspired.comGoogle Sheet with examples of SUM, AVERAGE, MAX, and MIN functions

5. Autofill

Autofill is a handy feature that lets you quickly copy formulas to other cells. To use it, click and drag the bottom-right corner of a cell containing a formula. Google Sheets will automatically adjust the cell references in the copied formulas.

[Image demonstrating autofill in Google Sheets]

6. Troubleshooting Formulas

If your formula isn't working correctly, Google Sheets will often provide helpful error messages. Here are some common ones:

• #ERROR!: This indicates a general error in your formula. Double-check your syntax and cell references.
• #DIV/0!: You're trying to divide by zero.
• #REF!:  A cell referenced in your formula is invalid (e.g., it may have been deleted).

By understanding these basics, you can start using formulas to harness the power of Google Sheets. Experiment, explore the available functions, and don't be afraid to make mistakes—that's how you learn!