Function

Hello Bernadette

Thank you for your question and welcome to the forum.

A function is a formula that has been pre-programmed into Excel, designed to be used for a specific purpose. For example, the SUM function is used in situations when you wish to add together values in your spreadsheet.

There are plenty of functions in Excel, therefore you may be interested in taking a look at the following tutorial on Excel functions:
http://office.microsoft.com/training/training.aspx?AssetID=RC061914861033

Otherwise simply go to Insert - Function in Excel and have a look at the functions listed in the various categories available.

When you select a function Excel will give you a description of what the function does at the bottom of the Insert Function box. You can always Cancel out of the box if you don't wish to use any of the functions listed.

Kind regards
Amanda