While its uses can vary greatly, the structure of the Function itself is very simple, in that it will return either TRUE or FALSE. This is certainly the most important aspect of this Function.
When to Use IF( )
The IF Function can be used whenever we wish to have the ability to return a particular result that is dependant on another
For example we may want a formula to SUM a range of cells if the value of a particular cell is greater than 100, but if the value of this particular cell is less than 100 we may wish to perform another calculation altogether.
This is often referred to as the What-If analysis: What if this were that value or what if this was another value?
While the IF Function can be used on its own, it is often combined with another Function.
This combining of Functions in Excel is what is known as: Nesting.
The anatomy of an IF{} function
What is Nesting?
nesting, in Excel, means using the result of one Function as the argument of another.
For example, we may want a formula to SUM a range of cells if the value of a particular cell is greater than 100, but if the value of this particular cell is less than 100 we may wish to perform another calculation altogether.
This is often referred to as the What-If analysis: What if this were that value or what if this was another value?
Try this yourself before watching the video below
TASK:
If the SUM value of the 10 numbers you input exceeds 100, then return the actual SUM value of the numbers.
If, however, the SUM value does not exceed 100, then return only the MAXIMUM number within the range.
Here's how you do it...
Test your knowledge!
Wax-on Wax-off!
Once you have gone over and fully understand these sections on Excels functions and formulas you will have the foundations on which we can build.
You may also discover that you will know the fundamentals of Excel formulas and functions better than a lot of so called experienced users!!
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Message from the Tutor
I hope that you enjoyed my Excel Building Blocks course and that you found it educational
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Ash