B. A Brief Tour of Solver

Real-life problems are sometimes larger and more complex than those offered in this book. They might offer hundreds or even thousands of decision variables and constraints. However, the methodology is similar no matter the size of the problem. The following steps can be followed to solve LP models with Excel Solver:

1. Set up constraints and the objective function in Solver.

2. Select Solver options.

3. Generate the solution.

4. Analyze the results.

Setting Up Constraints and the Objective Function in Solver

Typically, Solver is not installed by default when Excel is first set up. To add Solver to the Tools menu, perform the following steps:

1. Select File -> Options -> Add-Ins.

2. In the Add-ins window, choose Manage: ...

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