What are the four operators used for addition subtraction multiplication and division in Excel?

What are the Four Operators Used for Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division in Excel?

In Excel, the four fundamental operators used for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division are the plus sign (+), the minus sign (-), the asterisk (*), and the forward slash (/), respectively. These symbols are essential for performing basic arithmetic calculations within your spreadsheets.

Understanding Excel's Core Arithmetic Operators

Excel uses a specific set of symbols to perform calculations. When you input a formula into a cell, you always start with an equals sign (=), followed by your numbers, cell references, and the appropriate operators.

Here's a breakdown of the four operators for these common arithmetic operations:

This information aligns with Microsoft Support's documentation on Calculation Operators and Precedence in Excel, which lists + and - for addition and subtraction, and * and / for multiplication and division.

How Each Operator Works

Let's delve into each operator with practical insights:

1. Addition (+)

The plus sign is used to sum values. You can add:

• Direct numbers: =10+5 returns 15.
• Cell references: If cell A1 contains 10 and B1 contains 5, then =A1+B1 returns 15.
• A mix of both: =A1+5 would return 15 if A1 is 10.

2. Subtraction (-)

The minus sign is used to find the difference between values.

• Direct numbers: =20-7 returns 13.
• Cell references: If cell C1 contains 20 and D1 contains 7, then =C1-D1 returns 13.
• It can also be used as a unary minus to indicate a negative number, e.g., =-5.

*3. Multiplication (``)**

The asterisk symbol performs multiplication.

• Direct numbers: =6*8 returns 48.
• Cell references: If cell E1 contains 6 and F1 contains 8, then =E1*F1 returns 48.
• This operator is crucial for calculating totals based on quantity and price, e.g., =Quantity*Price.

4. Division (/)

The forward slash symbol is used for division.

• Direct numbers: =100/10 returns 10.
• Cell references: If cell G1 contains 100 and H1 contains 10, then =G1/H1 returns 10.
• Be cautious of division by zero, which will result in a #DIV/0! error in Excel.

Operator Precedence

It's important to remember that Excel follows a specific operator precedence, much like standard mathematical rules. This means certain operations are performed before others. For example, multiplication (*) and division (/) are executed before addition (+) and subtraction (-). You can use parentheses () to override this precedence and define the order of calculations, ensuring your formulas produce the desired results.