Formulas are the backbone of the spreadsheet, establishing and calculating mathematical relationships between elements of the spreadsheet. Whereas numeric entries remain the same until you change them, cells defined by formulas are automatically changed to reflect changes in referenced cells - even where there are complex interdependencies among cells.
NExS formulas can calculate with numbers, text, logical values, cell references, and other formulas. For example, you can easily calculate the sum of a series of cells, the total of values in a column, a minimum or maximum value within a range, the rounded result of another formula, or the absolute value of a cell entry. Formulas can express complex interdependencies among cells, and they can define constraints on the calculation, such as limits on acceptable values or specific conditions under which a calculation should take place.
Once entered in a cell, formulas are hidden behind the scenes, perform their work in the background, and display only the result of their calculation. To view the formula in a cell, simply select the cell.
NExS displays the formula in the Edit Line just below the main menu bar. You can edit the formula or values in cells at any time.
NExS also provides a wide array of functions that perform certain tasks. Functions can be used alone or in conjunction with formulas and other functions. NExS provides many specialized functions in addition to those that are found in typical financial spreadsheets. For more information about functions, refer to Chapter 7, NExS Built-in Functions.