Excel® 2013 On Demand

Creating Functions

Functions are predesigned formulas that save you the time and trouble of creating commonly used or complex equations. Trying to write a formula that calculates various pieces of data, such as calculating payments for an investment over a period of time at a certain rate, can be difficult and time-consuming. The Insert Function feature simplifies the process by organizing Excel’s built-in formulas, called functions, into categories so they are easy to find and use. A function defines all the necessary components (also called arguments) you need to produce a specific result; all you have to do is supply the values, cell references, and other variables. You can even combine one or more functions.

Enter a Function Using Insert ...