how do i do a subtraction formula in excel

If you used the example numbers, the result is 2. In cell E1, type an equal sign ( =) to start the formula. When you use cell references in a formula instead of the cell value, you can change the value without having to change the formula.

If you use the example numbers, the result is 32.Ī cell reference combines the column letter and row number, such as A1 or F345. The total is 86.Ĭlick any blank cell, and then type an equal sign ( =) to start a formula.Īfter the equal sign, type a few numbers that are separated by a minus sign (-). On the status bar, look at the value next to Sum. Type a few numbers in a column, or in a row, and then select the range of cells that you just filled. If you see a date instead of the result that you expected, select the cell, and then on the Home tab, select General. The following steps create a subtraction formula by using the plus sign “+”.If you change the value of C1 or D1 and then press RETURN, the value of E1 will change, even though the formula did not. The number 3, stored in cell B3 has a minus sign in front of it, meaning that the number 3 is stored as a negative number. So, even though using the plus sign “+” the result is the same as the subtraction formula.įor example, there are data such as the image below (see the 3rd line). You can use a plus sign “+” for a subtraction formula with a condition, the number stored in the cell must be a negative number.

Subtraction Formula Using the Plus Sign “+”

Point cursor to cell B2 (Cell containing number -3).

Point cursor to cell A2 (Cell containing number 5).

The following is the steps how to write subtraction formula How is the subtraction formula in Excel for number 5 subtract by number 3?įor example, number 5 and number 3 are stored in a cell as shown below (see line 2). You can type the numbers involved in the subtraction directly in the formula or place the numbers in a cell.įor example, there are two numbers, number 5 and 3. The symbol used for the subtraction formula is a minus sign “-” as well as a sign used in a mathematical operation. Subtraction Formula Using the Minus Sign “-“

Subtraction Formula Using the SUM Function.

Subtraction Formula Using the Plus Sign “+”.

Subtraction Formula Using the Minus Sign “-“.

How do i do a subtraction formula in excel