Formulas and operators: + − × ÷, order of operations

In this lesson

1. 1. Your first formula

   A formula is a calculation. It always starts with =.

   Use * to multiply. VAT here is 20%, so we multiply the price by 0.2.

2. 2. Add

   Use + to add. The total is the price plus the VAT.

3. 3. Subtract

   Use - to subtract. The shop gives a discount of 50 on the laptop.

4. 4. Divide

   Use / to divide. We pay the laptop total over 12 months.

5. 5. Which part comes first

   Excel multiplies and divides first. Then it adds and subtracts.

   Put brackets around a part to do it first.

6. 6. Try it yourself

   VAT is still 20%.

Part of Excel Essentials. Short lessons with practice in a real spreadsheet, checked as you go.