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Mathematical Operator

By , About.com Guide

The mathematical operators on the number pad

The mathematical operators on the number pad

© Ted French
Definition:

A mathematical operator is the symbol or sign that represents an arithmetic operation in an Excel formula.

Some of the mathematical operators used in Excel formulas - such as the ones for addition and subtraction - are similar to the ones we use in math class.

The ones for multiplication, division, and for exponents are quite different.

  • Subtraction - minus sign (-)

  • Addition - plus sign ( + )

  • Division - forward slash ( / )

  • Multiplication - asterisk ( * )

  • Exponentiation - caret ( ^ )

If more than one operator is used in a formula, there is a specific order of operations that Excel follows in deciding which mathematical operation occurs first.

Also Known As: arithmetic operators, operator
Examples:

The formula = 4 + 5 * 3 contains two mathematical operators - the plus sign ( + ) and the multiplication sign ( * ) .

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