Easy Excel Formulas and Functions Tutorial

In this beginner-level Excel tutorial, Greg Trzeciak, one of the expert trainers at Pragmatic Works, walks viewers through the most commonly used Excel formulas and functions. Using a practical and relatable example called “Greg’s Rodeo Eats,” Greg demonstrates how anyone—from students to professionals—can begin applying Excel formulas confidently.

Overview of Key Excel Functions

Greg introduces and explains four foundational Excel functions that every beginner should know:

• AVERAGE
• MEDIAN
• MODE
• SUM

1. AVERAGE Function

To begin, Greg demonstrates how to calculate the average of a dataset—specifically meat sales data such as ribeyes, filets, and ribs. He highlights two key methods to input the formula:

1. Using the formula bar: Type =AVERAGE(range).
2. Select the range manually using click-and-drag.

Remember to always close parentheses and press Enter to complete the formula. The result shows the average number of units sold.

2. MEDIAN Function

The median is the middle value in an ordered dataset. Greg shows how to calculate the median for salad sales using:

1. Clicking the target cell
2. Typing =MEDIAN(range) in the formula bar
3. Highlighting the desired cell range

He explains how Excel handles both odd and even numbers of entries, returning either the central value or the average of the two middle values.

3. MODE Function

Next, Greg explains how to use the =MODE function, which returns the number that appears most frequently in a dataset. He demonstrates this using appetizer sales such as wings, nachos, and onion castles.

Steps include:

• Entering =MODE(range)
• Highlighting the range of data
• Pressing Enter to view the most common item sold

4. SUM Function

Finally, Greg explores the =SUM function in two different ways:

1. Manual method: Type the formula directly into the cell or formula bar as =SUM(range).
2. AutoSum feature: Navigate to the Home tab, go to the Editing section on the right, and select AutoSum. Excel will automatically detect the relevant data range.

Both methods return the total value of the selected dataset. Greg emphasizes how this method is particularly helpful for quick data aggregation without having to write formulas manually.

Excel Tips and Best Practices from Greg

• Always start formulas with the = sign.
• Close all parentheses to avoid formula errors.
• Use the formula bar for transparency and easier editing.
• Take advantage of IntelliSense in Excel to guide you with formula suggestions.
• Practice using different datasets to build confidence and skill.

Conclusion

This tutorial sets the foundation for mastering Excel formulas. Whether you’re a student calculating grades, a restaurant owner analyzing sales, or a professional managing reports, these basic functions are essential tools for everyday tasks. Greg’s easygoing teaching style and clear examples ensure that learners can follow along and apply what they’ve learned immediately.

Don't forget to check out the Pragmatic Works' on-demand learning platform for more insightful content and training sessions on Excel and other Microsoft applications. Be sure to subscribe to the Pragmatic Works YouTube channel to stay up-to-date on the latest tips and tricks.