Formula
What is Formula?
Definition
A formula is an expression in a spreadsheet that calculates a result using numbers, cell references, functions, or a combination of these elements. The result changes automatically when the underlying values used by the formula are updated. This helps maintain accurate calculations and reduces the need to perform repetitive manual calculations.
Frayer Model Overview
Characteristics
Performs calculations rather than storing fixed values
Uses numbers, cell references, or functions
Produces a result that is displayed in the cell
Updates automatically when referenced data changes
Written as a structured expression
Examples
A formula in Excel that adds values from multiple cells
A formula calculating an average from a column of numbers
A formula that multiplies quantities by a price
A formula showing a total that updates when values change
A simple formula calculating a sum in a table
Non-Examples
A number typed directly into a cell
Text entered into a spreadsheet cell
A chart created from data
A formatting change like bold or colour
A static value that does not update