Datasheet

31
Chapter 1: Tapping into Formula and Function Fundamentals
Figure 1-21:
Using the
Insert
Function
dialog box.
Try it! Here’s an example of how to use the Insert Function dialog box to mul-
tiply a few numbers:
1. Enter three numbers in three different cells.
2. Click an empty cell where you want the result to appear.
3. Click the Insert Function button on the Formulas Ribbon.
As an alternative, you can just click the little fx button on the Formula
Bar. The Insert Function dialog box appears.
4. Select either All or Math & Trig.
5. In the list of functions, find and select the PRODUCT function.
6. Click the OK button.
This closes the Insert Function dialog box and displays the Function
Arguments dialog box (see Figure 1-22), where you can enter as many
arguments as needed. Initially it may not look like it can accommodate
enough arguments. You need to enter three in this example, but it looks
like there is only room for two. This is like musical chairs!
More argument entry boxes appear as you need them. First, though, how
do you enter the argument? There are two ways.
7. Enter the argument one of two ways:
• Type the numbers or cell references into the boxes.
• Use those funny-looking squares to the right of the entry boxes.
In Figure 1-22 two entry boxes are ready to go. To the left of them are
the names Number1 and Number2. To the right of the boxes are the little
squares. These squares are actually called RefEdit controls. They make
argument entry a snap. All you do is click one, click the cell with the
value, and then press Enter.
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