One of the four basic math operations, subtraction is a breeze in a spreadsheet. That’s true even with large numbers – no pen and paper needed. Let’s learn how to subtract in Microsoft Excel.
How to Subtract in Excel (With New Values)
Though the concept is simple, subtraction can become difficult, especially if you’re working with large, non-round values. Fortunately, Microsoft Excel has you covered. It’s easy to subtract two or more numbers, with just a few keystrokes.
Let’s say you want to subtract 2174 from 5003. To do it, begin by clicking into any empty cell in your file. Start by typing an = sign, which tells Excel that you’re going to be building a formula in that cell.
Type 5003, then press – on your keyboard. Finish by typing 2174. Your finished formula reads:
=5003-2174
Go ahead and press the Enter key on your keyboard. Excel returns your solution in the cell: 2829. Isn’t that easier than solving on paper?
If you want to subtract more than one number, simply continue typing. For example, you can remove 1000 by changing your formula to read:
=5003-2174-1000
How to Subtract in Excel (With Existing Values)
Now, imagine you have some numbers and want to subtract them from each other. They’re already on your spreadsheet, so you don’t want to type them in again.
Find an empty cell, and repeat the earlier step of typing =. Now, click on the cell containing your first number. Here, that’s cell B2. Then, type –, and click on cell C2. Finally, type – again, and click cell D2. Your subtraction formula now reads:
=B2-C2-D2.
Press Enter, and Excel will instantly perform the subtraction.
As you can see, Microsoft Excel makes basic math equations simple. It’s a true timesaver, especially when you’re working with lengthy, complex, or multiple values at once.
Substring in Excel