In Excel, one of the things I do often is multiplication. But have you ever wondered what symbols Excel uses to represent multiplication? Unlike traditional mathematics using multiplication sign (×), Excel follows programming conventions and uses asterisks (*) as multiplication signs.

In this article, I will take you through how to use multiplication symbols, common multiplication formulas, and some advanced tips in Excel to improve your computing power.

Key points:

• Excel uses asterisks (*) as multiplication symbols, rather than the traditional × sign.
• Multiplication formulas can involve direct numbers (e.g., =25 4) or cell references (e.g., =A1 B1).
• Advanced multiplication functions such as PRODUCT() and MMULT() help multiply the range and matrix.
• Common errors include incorrect cell references, using 'x' instead of *, and ignoring the order of operations.
• Use brackets to ensure that the calculation is correct, especially if you follow the PEMDAS rules in complex formulas.

Table of contents

Introduction to multiplication in Excel

Excel as a powerful computing tool

Excel is an indispensable tool for countless enterprises, mainly because of its powerful computing power. With the numerous features we can use, Excel is not only a tool for data entry, but also a powerful computing tool that facilitates a wide range of accounting and financial tasks. Its utility extends from simple data input to complex financial modeling, making it a must-have application in the modern professional toolkit.

Identify multiplication symbols in Excel

Multiplication using asterisk symbol

To multiply with an asterisk symbol in Excel, we simply find the symbol on the keyboard — usually Shift 8 — and use it as a multiplication operator in the formula. For example, if I want to multiply 25 by 4, I would enter =25*4 into a cell and press Enter, which will calculate and display the product, 100.

It's that simple. Additionally, asterisks can be combined with cell references, such as =A1*B1 , to multiply by the values ??of two cells, which simplifies the process when processing data arranged by row or column.

Access special multiplication functions

For more advanced multiplication requirements, Excel provides specialized functions such as PRODUCT() and MMULT() . PRODUCT() function is very generic, allowing us to multiply numbers, cells, and ranges together. For example, the formula =PRODUCT(A1:A5,10) multiplies all numbers in the range A1 to A5 by 10.

On the other hand, MMULT() allows matrix multiplication. This is especially useful when dealing with array operations in linear algebra and requires input of two arrays organized by row and column. Use this function to follow a specific syntax: =MMULT(array1,array2) , it is important to note that since it processes the array, after entering the function, you must press "Ctrl Shift Enter" instead of just "Enter" to get the correct matrix product.

Avoid common multiplication errors

Multiplying cells and numbers traps

A common pitfall when multiplying cells and numbers in Excel is an inadvertent use of wrong cell references or an error when entering formulas. A simple mistake, such as entering =A1*B2 instead of =A1*B1 , can significantly distort the result, so it is necessary to verify that all cell references are accurate.

Another mistake to note is multiplication with different symbols instead of asterisks. Sometimes it seems intuitive to use lowercase letter 'x' or dots, but it can lead to errors. As mentioned earlier, multiplication in Excel requires an asterisk (*) as the correct operator.

It is also important not to forget that Excel follows the order of operations in mathematics, so when creating complex formulas involving multiple mathematical operators, it is necessary to group operations using brackets to ensure that the calculations are done in the correct order.

Correct use of brackets in complex calculations

When constructing complex calculations involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, the correct use of brackets is essential to obtain accurate results. Parentheses tell Excel what to do first, following the PEMDAS order (brackets, exponents, multiplication and division, addition and subtraction).

For example, if the purpose is to add two numbers before multiplication, I might use a formula like =(A1 A2)*A3 .

Without brackets, formula A1 A2 * A3 will first multiply A2 and A3 and then add A1 to the product, which will produce different results.

Ignoring this rule can lead to costly mistakes, especially in financial or data analysis tasks. Ensure that brackets are strategically placed in the formula to clearly define the order of the parts of the Excel calculation formula, which is the basic skill for precise data manipulation.

FAQ

How to enter multiplication symbols in Excel?

To enter a multiplication symbol in Excel, use the asterisk ( ) on the keyboard, which is usually accessed by holding down Shift and pressing the number 8. When used in formulas, this symbol serves as a multiplication operator. For example, entering `=2 3` into the cell and pressing Enter will multiply by 2 and 3, giving the result 6.

What is the difference between multiplying by numbers and multiplying by cells in Excel?

In Excel, the difference between multiplying by numbers and multiplying by cells is the reference used. For numbers, you enter the value directly into the formula. For cells, you refer to cell coordinates (such as A1) instead of the number itself. Both methods use the asterisk (*) as the multiplication operator in the formula.

Where is the multiplication symbol on my keyboard?

On a standard keyboard, the multiplication symbol used in Excel, asterisk (*), is found by pressing Shift 8. It is the same key used for the number 8 and makes us perform multiplication operations in Excel and other applications.

What is the multiplication formula in Excel?

In Excel, a multiplication formula is not a specific function, but a term that usually refers to any formula that performs multiplication. It usually involves an asterisk ( ) symbol, as a multiplication operator between a number or cell reference, such as `=A1 A2 。對于乘以多個數(shù)字或單元格引用，你也可以使用the PRODUCT函數(shù)，如=PRODUCT(A1, A2, A3)`.

Why can't I multiply the constant by other cells?

If you can't multiply the constant by other cells, it may be because the cell reference is incorrect. Make sure you lock constant cell references using the dollar sign (for example, $A$1 ) in your formula. This makes references absolute, allowing constants to be reliably used in formulas applied to multiple cells.

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