How to Create a Custom Formula in Microsoft Excel

Quick summary

A custom formula in Microsoft Excel lets you combine multiple functions and cell references to perform complex calculations in a single worksheet cell. This step-by-step walkthrough shows exactly how to construct, nest, and execute a formula from scratch using Excel's built-in function suggestions.

Steps

1. Select the cell in your Microsoft Excel worksheet where you want to run the custom formula.
2. Type an equals sign (=) in the selected cell to signal that the input is a formula.
3. Type the name of the function you wish to use, then select it from the suggested results that appear.
4. Enter the cell reference or cell range to use as the argument, then close the expression with a closing parenthesis.
5. Input an operator or separator if you want to add another condition to the formula.
6. Type the name of the next function and select it from the recommended matches.
7. Add the cell range or cell reference you wish to use as the argument for the second function.
8. Insert a closing parenthesis to end the formula; repeat the same series of steps to add more conditions.
9. Press the Enter or Return key to run the newly created formula and view the results.