How to Enter an Array Formula in Microsoft Excel 2016 for Mac

Array formulas in Microsoft Excel 2016 for Mac require a specific entry technique to ensure that Excel recognizes the formula as an array. This guide will take you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that you can create these powerful formulas effectively.

What is an Array Formula?

An array formula, in Excel, performs calculations on multiple values rather than a single one, offering a powerful way to manage and process data efficiently. These formulas can be particularly useful in scenarios requiring complex operations on multiple data points.

Entering an Array Formula in Microsoft Excel 2016 for Mac

To enter an array formula in Excel 2016 for Mac, follow these steps:

Select the Cells: Choose the cell or range of cells where you want the result to appear. Type the Formula: Enter the formula you wish to apply. For instance, if you want to sum the product of two ranges, you might type:

SUM(A1:A10*B1:B10)

Enter the Formula as an Array Formula: Unlike regular formulas, array formulas require a different key combination to enter. Press Command Shift Enter. This instructs Excel to treat the formula as an array formula. Check the Result: After pressing Command Shift Enter, Excel will place curly braces around your formula to indicate that it is an array formula. Verify that the result is displayed correctly in the selected cells.

It's important to note that if you modify the formula, you will need to re-enter it using Command Shift Enter again.

Differences Between Excel for Mac and Windows

While the key combination for entering array formulas might match Excel for Windows (CTRL Shift Enter), for Excel 2016 for Mac, you should use Command Shift Enter. This difference is a key point to remember when working with Excel across different operating systems.

Example: Using SUMPRODUCT to Create an Array Formula

The SUMPRODUCT function is a common example of a built-in function that can create array formulas without requiring the traditional Command Shift Enter method. For instance, to sum the values in column B where column A equals "red," you can use:

SUMPRODUCT(A1:A10"red", B1:B10)

However, if you prefer to use the SUM function with an array formula, you can convert it to a regular formula using the INDEX function:

SUM(INDEX(B1:B10, ROW(INDIRECT("1:"COUNTIF(A1:A10, "red")))))

Note that the typo at the end of the INDEX function (a comma followed by nothing) tells Excel to return all values as an array, avoiding the need for Command Shift Enter.

By understanding the nuances of entering array formulas in Excel 2016 for Mac, you can effectively utilize this feature to manage complex data sets and perform advanced calculations.

Key Steps to Remember:

Command Shift Enter for array formula entry CURLY BRACES placed by Excel around array formulas Use built-in functions like SUMPRODUCT for easier array formula creation Avoid the need for Command Shift Enter with functions like INDEX

Feel free to ask if you have any more questions about Excel or need help with specific formulas!