Subtraction in Excel might seem simple, but it holds the power to automate budgeting, accounting, and everyday calculations. While there is no dedicated SUBTRACT function like SUM, Excel handles subtraction using the minus symbol (-).
Formula: =Value1 - Value2
Brenda’s Excel Lesson on Subtraction
After teaching her children Carl and Carly the SUM function, Brenda now moves on to subtraction. She creates everyday scenarios to make Excel engaging and useful for them.
What You Will Learn:
- How to subtract columns
- How to subtract multiple cells
- How to subtract dates
- How to subtract time
- How to subtract percentages
- How to fix common subtraction issues
1. Subtract Columns in Excel
Carly tries subtracting Column1 from Column2.
Formula: =E6 - F6
Result: 49
Apply the formula in the first cell, then drag down the corner to fill it across the column.
2. Subtract Multiple Cells
Formula: =G10 - G11 - G12
Result: 12
Ensure the correct order of operations while subtracting multiple values.
3. Subtract Dates in Excel
Subtracting dates helps calculate the number of days, months, or years between two dates. Brenda teaches Carl to use the DATEDIF function.
Formula: =DATEDIF(E6, F6, "d")
Result: 204 days
- “d” – days
- “m” – months
- “y” – years
4. Subtract Time in Excel
Time subtraction helps in calculating durations (e.g. hours worked). Use the 24-hour format for better accuracy.
Formula: =F6 - E6
Result: 15:20:00 (15 hours 20 minutes)
Note: Change cell format to Time from General for accurate output.
5. Subtract Percentages in Excel
To reduce a number by a percentage:
Formula: =A1 - (A1 * 10%)
This subtracts 10% of A1 from A1.
6. Subtract Using Named Ranges
To improve readability, define names like Price and Discount:
Formula: =Price - Discount
7. Common Subtraction Errors
| Error | Reason | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| #VALUE! | Trying to subtract text from number | Ensure both cells are numbers |
| Negative Result | Subtracting a larger number from a smaller one | Use ABS() if you want only positive |
| Wrong Time Format | Incorrect cell format | Format cells as Time |
8. Real-Life Use Case – Monthly Budgeting
Brenda tracks grocery expenses weekly. She subtracts the remaining amount from the monthly budget.
Formula: =Monthly_Budget - Total_Spent
Example: =500 - 342 gives $158 left for the month.
9. Excel Subtraction Cheat Sheet
| Type | Example | Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Numbers | 100 – 40 | =100 – 40 |
| Cells | A1 – B1 | =A1 – B1 |
| Dates | End – Start | =DATEDIF(A1, B1, “d”) |
| Time | Exit – Entry | =B1 – A1 |
| Percent | Price – 10% | =A1 – (A1*10%) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you use a subtraction function in Excel?
No, Excel does not have a dedicated SUBTRACT function. Use the minus (-) sign instead.
2. How do I subtract a fixed value from a range?
If subtracting 10 from a column of values: =A1 - 10, then drag the fill handle down.
3. How can I subtract dates and show results in years?
Use =DATEDIF(A1, B1, "y") to get full years between two dates.
Conclusion
Whether you’re subtracting values in a budget, calculating remaining time, or comparing dates — Excel makes it easy and powerful. With Brenda’s everyday examples, even kids can start mastering Excel functions and use them for household and professional tasks alike.
Keep practicing different subtraction scenarios to boost your spreadsheet skills!