what is the difference between this formula:

=+C31*$D$14

and this one:

=C31*$D$14

both formula give the same results. what is the purpose of the plus sign?

The plus sign in formulas

The plus sign before a cell reference in a formula doesn't affect the calculation of the formula. It is optional and doesn't change anything in the formula.

The plus sign can be used to indicate that the formula is a positive number or to make the formula more readable. However, in the case of the formula provided, it doesn't make any difference whether the plus sign is included or not.

Conclusion

In summary, the purpose of the plus sign before a cell reference in a formula is simply to indicate that the number is positive or to make the formula more readable. However, it doesn't affect the calculation of the formula.

1. The plus sign before a cell reference in a formula is optional and doesn't affect the calculation of the formula.
2. It can be used to indicate that the formula is a positive number or to make the formula more readable.
3. In the case of the formula provided, the plus sign doesn't make any difference.

The plus sign serves no useful purpose whatsoever
It does tell us that maybe the originator of the workbook began life as a
Lotus 123 users where formulas began with +. And that they have not yet
found that Excel does not require them (old habits die hard - or not at all)
best wishes
--
Bernard Liengme
Microsoft Excel MVP
http://people.stfx.ca/bliengme

"KrispyData" wrote in message
...
what is the difference between this formula:

=+C31*$D$14

and this one:

=C31*$D$14

both formula give the same results. what is the purpose of the plus sign?

Hello!

Aside from the = sign, you can start a formula by using a + sign. While you can say that this is "useless", the main function of this is to just multiply the whole formula with +1, that's why it appears as if nothing happened.

For the - sign, the inverse is true. It multiples the whole formula by -1, meaning a positive output of a formula becomes negative, and a negative output of a formula becomes positive. This can be useful in a number of applications.


For more tips on excel and financial models, you can check this out. Hope this helps!