Learning outcomes
- Explain how to write formulas using cell references and common functions.
- Complete the guided practice safely.
- Check that you can verify formulas by checking sample values.
Microsoft Excel
Excel Formulas and Functions
Learn to write formulas using cell references and common functions and verify formulas by checking sample values in this beginner-friendly Microsoft 365 lesson.
Before you begin
Open Excel and create a blank practice workbook. Use sample information rather than confidential business data.
Step-by-step instructions
- Open Excel and a blank practice workbook and confirm you are using the intended account.
- Calculate totals, averages and a simple conditional result.
- Pause and check permissions, filenames, recipients, dates or settings that affect the task.
- Test the result: verify formulas by checking sample values.
- Save the workbook to OneDrive and check that formulas, formatting and labels still display correctly.
Ian's practical tip: Use sample information first. Once the workflow is correct, repeat it with approved work information and the minimum necessary access.
Practical activity
Calculate totals, averages and a simple conditional result. Your expected result is to verify formulas by checking sample values.