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Checking formulas with multiple operators

When dealing with formulas containing more than one operator (+, -, /, *), Excel follow standard BEDMAS order of operation rules. These rules specify the order that calculations will be performed in, regardless of how the formula reads left to right:

B = brackets
E = exponents
D = division
M = multiplication
A = addition
S = subtraction

It should be noted that multiplication and division are considered equal; as are addition and subtraction.

If you would like to check the order in which Excel is performing calculations in a formula, simply click on the cell containing the formula. Then go to Tools - Formula Auditing and select Evaluate Formula.

In the Evaluate Formula dialogue box that appears on your screen, click the Evaluate button to see how Excel calculates the formula result.

Added by Amanda on 24th November 2006

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