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How to Use Microsoft Excel: Formulas & Functions

Inserting Functions

You can enter functions into your spreadhseet by either typing an equal sign (=) and the name of the function (such as =SUM) or you can click the function button ( Excel's function button (fx) ) and select the desired function from a list. 

Useful Functions

ABS Returns the absolute value of a number
AVERAGE  Returns the average (mean) of a selected range of cells
CORREL Returns the correlation coefficient between 2 data sets
COS Returns the cosine of a number
FV Returns the future value of an investment
INTERCEPT                   Returns the intercept of the linear regression line
LCM Returns the least common multiple
MAX Returns the maximum value of a selected range of cells
MEDIAN Returns the median of a selected range of cells
MIN Returns the minimum value of a selected range of cells
MODE Returns the most common value of a selected range of cells
NPER Returns the number of periods for an investment
NPV Returns the net present value of an investment based on a series of periodic cash flows and a discount rate
PMT Returns the periodic payment for an annuity
PPMT Returns the payment on the principal for an investment for a given period
PV Returns the present value of an investment
SIN Returns the sine of a given angle

SLOPE

Returns the slope of a linear regression line
SUM Adds together a selected range of cells
TAN Returns the tangent of a number
TREND Returns values along a linear trend