Creating a simple formula in Excel is easy. Let’s start with adding two numbers: Select the cell where you want the answer to appear. Type an equals sign followed by the first number, followed by the operator (+), and then the second number. For example, “=5+5” will add 5 and 5 together.

Begin your formula by typing an equal sign into the selected cell. The equal sign is crucial as it tells Excel that what follows is a formula and not just text or a number. Input the formula using cell references and mathematical operators. For example, to add the values of cells A1 and B1, your formula would be =A1+B1.

Open an existing Excel workbook. If you want, you can use our practice workbook. Create a simple addition formula using cell references. If you are using the example, create the formula in cell B4 to calculate the total budget. Try modifying the value of a cell referenced in a formula.

In short, you’ll need to select a cell, type in an equal sign (=), and then input your formula using cell references and mathematical operators. After you press enter, Excel will calculate the result and display it in your selected cell. Ready to learn more? Let’s dive into the step-by-step tutorial.