Cammarata 1

Jake Cammarata

Mrs. Dougherty

10/23/17

Excel Lesson 8

Section A. Define the following vocabulary (18 pts):

1. Function

A function is a predefined formula that performs calculations using specific values in a particular

order.

2. Syntax

A syntax is when each function has a specific order.

3. Argument

An argument are the numbers that you want to calculate.

4. Function Name

The function name is the name of the function that you put after the equal sign, such as SUM,

AVERAGE, MAX, MIN, and much much more.

5. Colons

A colon creates a reference to a range of cell.

6. Commas

Commas separates individual values.

7. AutoSum
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AutoSum allows you to automatically return the results for a range of cells for common

functions like SUM and AVERAGE.

8. Function Library

The function library is a great place to explore functions.

9. Insert Function Command

The insert function command is a convenient because it allows you to search for a function by

typing a description of what you are looking for.

Sections B. Explain how to do the following (6 pts):

1) Create a basic function in Excel:

To create a basic function in Excel, you have to type the equal sign, then type in the function (for

example SUM). Then, add the argument which is the numbers you want to calculate.

2) Use the Insert Function Command:

To use the insert function command you have to select the the cell you want your answer in.

Click the formula tab, then select the insert function command. Then a dialog box will appear.

Type a description of the function you want and click go. Review the results to find the function

you are looking for and click ok when you found the right one. Then a function dialog box will

appear and put your cursor and select the cells you want. Insert your cursor in the next field, then

enter the cells you want. Then click okay.

Section C. Critical Thinking (8 pts) - answer in question in paragraph format (at least 5-6

sentences)

1) How are colons and commas used in Excel when writing arguments?
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Colons are used to show a reference to a range of cells. F8:G9 this is an example of the usage of

colons. A comma is used to separate individual values. F9, F12 is an example of the usage of

commas.

2) Which Excel functions would a small business owner use often? Explain how and why.

A small business owner would use the SUM function. They would use this function so they

could add all of their profits together. They would also use the date and time function.They

would use this function so they could know when they sold their items or how much they sold on

that day.

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