Pasting a Function

Functions in Microsoft Excel are pre-defined; there are over 300 different kinds of functions that can be used in a spreadsheet. The structure of a typical function is shown below:

=SUM(C10:C13)

Every function must begin with the = sign. After typing in the name of the function, the ARGUMENT is placed in parentheses. The argument is the data required by the function to complete it. The argument could be a range of cells, specific numbers, text, or even another function. What is placed between the parentheses varies depending on the function and the situation it is being used in.

To assist you with functions, users can click on the Paste Function button. The Paste Function button is a two-step process that lists all 300+ functions in Microsoft Excel and gives a description for each function. The functions are organized into categories, including a list of the most recently used functions, to make finding the proper function easier.

Once you have chosen the function you need, step 2 of Paste Function will prompt you for the required arguments.

Paste Function will preview the result of the function before you have to accept it. This provides the opportunity to make changes without going into Edit mode. Note that the argument can be anything from static numbers to a range of cells to another function. When the third of these is done, that is considered NESTING a function