Spreadsheet computer programs or spreadsheets are versatile, powerful tools for doing repetitive or complicated algebraic calculations. They are used in diverse technological fields including manufacturing, design, and finance. Spreadsheets blend the power of high level computer languages with the simplicity of hand calculators. They are ideal for doing "what-if" calculations such as changing a problem’s parameters and comparing the new result to the initial answer. The visual nature of spreadsheets allows the user to grasp quickly and simultaneously the interaction of many variables in a given problem. Generally only 5 to 10% of a spreadsheet program functionality needs to be. | Machinery s Handbook Guide 28th Edition SECTION 4 SPREADSHEET CALCULATIONS Spreadsheet computer programs or spreadsheets are versatile powerful tools for doing repetitive or complicated algebraic calculations. They are used in diverse technological fields including manufacturing design and finance. Spreadsheets blend the power of high level computer languages with the simplicity of hand calculators. They are ideal for doing what-if calculations such as changing a problem s parameters and comparing the new result to the initial answer. The visual nature of spreadsheets allows the user to grasp quickly and simultaneously the interaction of many variables in a given problem. Generally only 5 to 10 of a spreadsheet program functionality needs to be understoodtobegin doing productive spreadsheet calculations. Since the underlying concepts of all spreadsheets are the same it is easy transfer this basic understanding from one spreadsheet program to another with very little learning curve. Only a small percentage of the actual spreadsheet commands will be covered in this section but understanding these core concepts will allow the reader to do productive work immediately. There are many varieties of spreadsheet programs. It is impossible to cover all these spreadsheet programs individually in this brief overview. The formulas listed below are for conceptual understanding andmayaotworkwhen pluggeddireatly into a particular user should consult the spreadsheet s manual or builtinhelp systemfor iventopic aspreadsheet s aelpsysteeewilliisS aareperlyennsSructed etted-ple I whftlli t osdsin euidd ynftempintetogetilarted. epreadsheftBaeic ConauptCa-Ta Ppftf eft keysyeeasheet eoncyptrmustdn eadeattood. yy. Copyright 2008 Industrial Press Inc. New York NY - Machinery s Handbook Guide 28th Edition SPREADSHEETS 23 Cell Content The basic calculating unit of all .
