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INDIVIDUALassignment(BNAMEL)

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4 views5 pages

INDIVIDUALassignment(BNAMEL)

Just study

Uploaded by

zakariadaniel0075
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TRANSPORT.

DEPARTMENT MARINE OIL AND GAS ENGINEERING.

PROGRAMME: BNAMEL.
MODULE NAME: COMPUTER APPLICATION.
STUDENT’S NAME: ZAKARIA DANIEL MWITA.
REG NO: NIT/BNAMEL/2024/170.
MODULE CODE: SRT05101G
LECTURE’S NAME: SALOME MACHANGE.
TASK: INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT.
ACADEMIC YEAR: 2024/2025.
SEMESTER: 01.
SUBMISSION DATE: 14/01/2025.
DIFFERENTIATE BETWEEN A FORMULA AND A FUNCTION
AS USED IN MICROSOFT EXCEL.

WHAT IS A FORMULA
A formula is a user-defined expression that performs calculations or operations on data in a
worksheet. It is written manually by the user and can include:

• Operators: Mathematical (+, -, *, /), logical (=, <, >), or reference (&, :).
• Cell References: Referring to values in specific cells.
• Constants: Fixed values, such as numbers or text.
• Functions: Predefined operations that can be part of the formula.

Characteristics of a Formula:

Example 1:

=A1 + B1 - C1 This

formula:

• Adds the values in A1 and B1.


• Subtracts the value in C1 from the sum.

Example 2:

=(A1 * B1) / 2 This

formula:

• Multiplies the values in A1 and B1.


• Divides the result by 2.

WHAT IS A FUNCTION
A function is a predefined and built-in operation in Excel designed to perform specific
calculations automatically. Functions save time by simplifying complex tasks and eliminating the
need to write lengthy formulas.

Characteristics of a Function:

1. Predefined Syntax: A function has a specific structure with a name followed by


parentheses (), where arguments (inputs) are placed.
2. Performs Specific Tasks: Functions are optimized to handle tasks like summing
numbers, finding averages, searching for data, or performing logical comparisons.
3. Simplifies Complex Calculations: Instead of writing lengthy formulas, you can use a
function to achieve the same result.

Example 1: SUM Function


=SUM(A1:A10)

This function adds up all the values in the range A1 to A10.

Example 2: AVERAGE Function


=AVERAGE(B1:B5)

This function calculates the average of the values in the range B1 to B5.

Example 3: IF Function
=IF(A1>50, "Pass", "Fail")

This function checks if the value in A1 is greater than 50:

• If TRUE, it returns "Pass".


• If FALSE, it returns "Fail".

Key Differences Between Formulas and Functions


Aspect Formula Function
A user-created expression for
Definition A predefined calculation built into Excel.
calculations.
Built into Excel; user provides arguments.
Creation Manually written by the user.

Can be complex depending on user Simplifies complex calculations into a


Complexity
input. single command.
Combines values, operators, and Executes specific tasks (e.g., SUM, IF,
Usage
functions as needed. VLOOKUP).
Aspect Formula Function
Examples =A1 + B1 =SUM(A1:A10)

Flexibility Fully customizable. Limited to predefined tasks.

Combination of Formulas and Functions


Often, formulas and functions are used together. For instance:

Example:
=(A1 * B1) + SUM(C1:C5)

• (A1 * B1) is a formula that multiplies the values in A1 and B1.


• SUM(C1:C5) is a function that adds the values in C1 to C5.

Together, they create a more powerful expression.

Scenarios to Use Formulas vs. Functions


Scenario Solution Why?
Simple addition with no complex
Add values in two cells. Formula: =A1 + B1
operations.
Add a range of values in SUM is faster and more efficient for
Function: =SUM(A1:A10)
multiple cells. adding ranges.
Check if a number is greater
Formula: =A1 > B1 Logical comparison is straightforward.
than another.
Find the maximum value in MAX is designed for this specific
Function: =MAX(A1:A10)
a range. purpose.
Calculate profit using sales Formula: =Sales - Simple subtraction using named ranges
and costs. Costs or cell references.
Calculate compound Function: =FV(rate,
FV simplifies the financial calculation.
interest. nper, pmt)

Conclusion
• Formulas are flexible and user-defined, allowing complete customization for various
calculations.
• Functions are specialized tools within Excel that streamline repetitive or complex tasks.

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