Mastering Array Formulas in Excel: Not Equal Sign

Excel array formulas are powerful tools that can help you solve complex problems with ease. One of the most useful applications of these formulas is when working with conditional statements, such as the not equal to sign (=). In this article, we will explore how to use array formulas in Excel to achieve this.

The Basics of Array Formulas

An array formula is a type of formula that allows you to perform calculations on multiple values at once. Unlike regular formulas, which only operate on a single value, array formulas can handle arrays of values and return an array of results. To enter an array formula, simply select the cell where you want the result to appear, press 'Ctrl' + 'Shift' + 'Enter', and then type in your formula.

Not Equal Sign

The not equal sign (=) is a common conditional statement used to specify that a value should be excluded from a calculation. In Excel, this can be achieved using array formulas. For example, suppose you have a range of values (A2:A5) and you want to average only the values that are not missing or zero.

The formula would look like this: `=AVERAGE(IF((A2:A5<>'')*(A2:A5<>0),A2:A5))`

In this example, the not equal sign (<>) is used to specify that the value should be excluded if it is either missing (i.e., an empty string) or zero.

Array Formula Example

Suppose you have a range of values in column B and you want to average only the values that are greater than 4. You can use the following array formula:

`=AVERAGE(IF((B2:B5)>4,B2:B5))`

In this example, the not equal sign (>) is used to specify that the value should be included if it is greater than 4.

Conditional Statements

Array formulas can also include conditional statements. For example, suppose you want to average only the values in column B that are greater than 4 and less than 6. You can use the following array formula:

`=AVERAGE(IF((B2:B5)>4)*(IF((B2:B5)<6),B2:B5)))`

In this example, the not equal sign (>) is used to specify that the value should be included if it is greater than 4 and less than 6.

SUMIFS Function

Another way to use array formulas with conditional statements is by using the SUMIFS function. The SUMIFS function adds up values in a range based on multiple criteria. For example, suppose you want to sum only the values in column E that are not equal to 'Smart Phone' and are greater than 4.

The formula would look like this: `=SUMIFS(E5:E14,'Product','<>*Phone*')`

In this example, the not equal sign (<>) is used to specify that the value should be excluded if it contains the text 'Smart Phone'.

Array formulas in Excel are powerful tools that can help you solve complex problems with ease. By mastering these formulas and learning how to use conditional statements such as the not equal sign (=), you can achieve greater flexibility and accuracy in your calculations.

Excel not equal to sign