Page 30 - Viva ICSE Computer Studies 8 : E-book

Using Functions

Functions are the predefi ned commands that act on a cell or a range of cells and perform
calculations. A function consists of two parts: the function name and the arguments. The
arguments are given within round brackets.

Rules for Using a Function

Following rules should be followed while using a function.

• A function must begin with an equal to (=) sign.
• A function name must be valid. Sum and Average are some function names.
• A function name must be followed by opening and closing parenthesis.

• Arguments should be enclosed in the parenthesis.

Commonly Used FUnctions

Given below are some commonly used functions.

AutoSum

The AutoSum option is used to carry out diff erent functions like Average, Count, Max and Min.
To get AutoSum, click on the AutoSum button in the ‘Function Library’ group of the ‘Formulas’
tab.

AutoSum is also present in the ‘Editing’ group of
the ‘Home’ tab.

Let’s learn about diff erent functions under
AutoSum option.

Sum ( )

The Sum function returns the sum total of
the range values. Follow these steps to use
Step 2
Sum function.
1. Click on the cell A7 where you want to
Step 3 place the total.
Step 4
2. Click on the AutoSum option in the
‘Editing’ group of the ‘Home’ tab.
3. Select the Sum option from the drop-
down list.

4. A dashed border will appear around
A1 through A6 and Excel automatically
Think and Discuss enters the formula in ‘cell A7’. Press the
Enter key to get the result.
Which all functions in Excel can be
of use to you?

18