What are common functions?

• COUNT: This functions adds and displays the number of cells in a selected range containing numerical values.
• MAX/MIN: These display the maximum/minimum value in a selected range of cells.
• AVERAGE: This function displays the average value within a selected range of cells.

Many more functions exist within Excel. The benefit of using functions over typing the values yourself is that if one of the values in cells (C1-C8, in the example) change the average, max, min etc values will automatically update.

How do I use one of these functions?

Method One

1. Click in the cell into which you wish to enter the formula.
2. Type ‘=’.
3. Type COUNT,MAX,MIN or AVERAGE.
4. Type ‘(’.
5. Type the cell range (separate the first and last value with a colon).
6. Type ‘)’.
7. Press <Enter>.

Method Two

1. Click in the cell into which you wish to enter the formula.
2. In the ‘Home’ ribbon.
3. Click the ‘AutoSum’ drop down menu.
   A list of functions will be displayed.
4. Choose the required function.
5. Use the mouse to select the required cell range.
6. Press <Enter>.