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Arithmetic Operators

Arithmetic Operators


Arithmetic Operators

The Building Blocks of Excel Calculations

Arithmetic operators tell Excel exactly what kind of mathematical operation to perform. While some symbols look like the ones you used in school, others (like multiplication and powers) are specific to computer keyboards.

Main Operators

Operation Symbol Example Formula Logic
Addition + =A1 + B1 Adds two values together.
Subtraction - =A1 - B1 Subtracts the second from the first.
Multiplication * =A2 * B2 Uses the asterisk symbol.
Division / =A3 / B3 Uses the forward slash.
Power (Exponent) ^ =A4 ^ 2 Raises A4 to the power of 2.
Percentage % =20% * A1 Calculates 20% of the value in A1.

⚠️ Common Beginner Error

Don't use the letter 'x' for multiplication or a '÷' for division. Excel will not recognize them and will show a #NAME? error. Always use * and /.

⌨️ Finding the Symbols

  • Asterisk (*): Shift + 8
  • Power (^): Shift + 6
  • Forward Slash (/): Near the Right Shift key.

💡 Skill Eco Pro-Tip: Percentages Made Easy

In Excel, you don't need to divide by 100 to get a percentage. If you type =A1 * 10%, Excel automatically knows to treat 10% as 0.1. This keeps your formulas clean and easy to read!

🏋️ Test Yourself With Exercises

Take our quiz on Arithmetic Operators to test your knowledge.

Exercise »