When using the payment function in Excel, I notice that the result of
my formula is always a negative number. I have seen two different ways
to crrect this:
One is to put a (-) in the Pv (Present Value) field, before clicking
on the cell that holds the present value.
The other is to put a (-) in front of the equation, like this: = -
PMT(A2/12,A3,A1).
They both give me the desired result. But I was wondering which one is
considered the "proper" way to do it? I am considering taking a MOS
test in Excel (down the road) and I can't find any "official" (ie
Microsoft) documentation that lays this out.

If anyone could give me a reference, or your best idea on how this
would be done, I would appreciate it.
Thanks for taking the time...
Don