
Perform the operation in parenthesis (5-2) first and then multiply by 3.

Multiply 2*3 before performing the subtraction operation because the multiplication sign is of a higher order than the subtraction sign. Subtract 5-2 before performing the addition operation because the subtaction sign comes before the addition sign. The answer is 0.833333.Īdd 5+3 before performing the subtraction operation because the addition sign comes before the subtraction sign. Perform the operation in parentheses (3*2) first and divide 5 by this result.

The answer is 7.5.ĭivide 5/3 before performing the multiplication operation because the division sign comes before the multiplication sign. Multiply 5*3 before performing the division operation because the multiplication sign comes before the division sign. In Excel, never do math in your head and type the answer in a cell where you would expect to have a formula calculate the answer.īefore moving on, let's explore some more formulas to make sure you understand the order of operations by which Excel calculates an answer. When using formulas with cell references, the results change each time the numbers are edited.

Exponential calculations (to the power of).If you enter a formula that contains several operations-like adding, subtracting, and dividing-Excel XP knows to work these operations in a specific order.

The order of mathematical operations is important. Complex formulas involve more than one mathematical operation. Simple formulas have one mathematical operation.
