Introduction to basic arithmetic operations in Excel (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)

Excel is a powerful tool for performing basic arithmetic operations in Excel such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Here’s how you can perform each operation:

1. Addition (+): To add numbers in Excel:
   • Select the cell where you want the result to appear.
   • Type “=” to begin a formula.
   • Then, type the cell reference or the number you want to add.
   • Use the “+” operator to add additional numbers or cell references.
   • Press Enter to complete the formula.
   Example: If you want to add the numbers in cells A1, B1, and C1, you can type “=A1+B1+C1” in the target cell.
2. Subtraction (-): To subtract numbers in Excel:
   • Follow the same steps as addition.
   • Use the “-” operator to subtract one number from another.
   Example: To subtract the value in cell B1 from the value in cell A1, you can type “=A1-B1”.
3. Multiplication (*): To multiply numbers in Excel:
   • Follow the same steps as addition.
   • Use the “*” operator to multiply numbers or cell references.
   Example: If you want to multiply the values in cells A1 and B1, you can type “=A1*B1”.
4. Division (/): To divide numbers in Excel:
   • Follow the same steps as addition.
   • Use the “/” operator to divide one number by another.
   Example: To divide the value in cell A1 by the value in cell B1, you can type “=A1/B1”.

Remember to always start your arithmetic formulas with “=” in Excel to let it know that you’re entering a calculation. Additionally, you can combine these basic arithmetic operations within a single formula to perform more complex calculations. Excel also supports the use of parentheses to control the order of operations, just like in mathematics.