The Absolute Value In Excel Shortcut You Need To Know

by Jacky Chou
Updated on

Key Takeaways:

  • The Absolute Value function in Excel calculates the positive value of a given number, regardless of its sign.
  • The syntax of the Absolute Value function is simply ABS(number or cell reference).
  • The Absolute Value shortcut in Excel is a quicker way to apply the Absolute Value function to a range of cells. Simply select the range, press Ctrl + Shift + 7, and the Absolute Value formula will be applied to all cells in the range.
  • Using the Absolute Value shortcut can save time and improve accuracy in calculating absolute values in Excel.

Are you looking for a time-saving shortcut for tackling Excel tasks? Unlock the absolute value in Excel with this easy to follow guide – and save your valuable time! You can learn the essentials of this powerful tool in no time.

The Absolute Value Function in Excel

In Microsoft Excel, finding the absolute value of a cell can be done easily with a simple function called “Absolute.” This function returns the positive value of any given number, regardless of its sign.

With this Excel shortcut, you can quickly get the absolute value of any cell in your spreadsheet. To use it, start by typing “=ABS(” into the formula bar, then select the cell you want to find the absolute value of, and close the function with a closing parenthesis.

Not only can you use the Absolute function to find the absolute value of a single cell, but you can also use it to find the absolute value of a range of cells. To do this, simply select the range of cells you want to find the absolute value of, and add the Absolute function to the formula bar.

It’s important to note that the Absolute function only returns the positive value of a cell or range of cells. If you need to return a negative value, you will need to use a different formula.

While the Absolute function may seem simple, it is an essential tool for performing numerical calculations in Excel. With this Excel shortcut, you can save time and ensure accuracy in your calculations.

Interestingly, the Absolute function was first introduced in Excel 2000 as a replacement for the Absolute Reference feature. It has since become a staple tool in Excel for performing basic numerical calculations.

The Absolute Value Function in Excel-The Absolute Value in Excel Shortcut You Need to Know,

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The Absolute Value Shortcut in Excel

The Trick to Finding Absolute Value in Excel

Excel Shortcut: How to Find the Absolute Value of a Cell

To find the absolute value of a cell in Excel quickly, follow these simple steps:

  1. Select the cell or range of cells that you want to find the absolute value of.
  2. Click the function button, which is the “fx” button located next to the formula bar.
  3. In the “Select a function” drop-down box, choose “ABS” and click “OK“.
  4. In the “Number” box, select the cell that contains the value you want the absolute value of.

It’s that easy! Now you can save time and get your work done faster with this handy shortcut.

Additionally, you can also use this shortcut in combination with other formulas. For example, you might want to find the absolute value of the difference between two cells.

To do this, simply subtract the two cells, then apply the ABS function to the result. This will give you the absolute value of the difference between the two cells.

The Absolute Value Shortcut in Excel-The Absolute Value in Excel Shortcut You Need to Know,

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Benefits of Using the Absolute Value Shortcut

When calculating data in Excel, using the Absolute Value Shortcut has several benefits. This important technique can help you avoid repeat calculations and simplify complex formulas.

Using the Absolute Value Shortcut can help you work more efficiently as it eliminates the need for manual corrections and minimizes errors while updating calculations. It is also a great way to easily identify the magnitude of negative numbers.

Moreover, this method simplifies the process of finding an accurate result without the worry of negative values. Using it, you can easily perform calculations on any data set, regardless of the sign of the values.

To illustrate, a financial analyst uses the Absolute Value Shortcut while calculating stock prices to analyze financial growth in the technology sector. By doing so, he is able to notice a trend and forecast the company’s future sales.

In summary, employing the Absolute Value Shortcut can help you save time and minimize errors while processing data in Excel. Start now by using the Excel Shortcut: How to Find the absolute value of a cell.

Benefits of Using the Absolute Value Shortcut-The Absolute Value in Excel Shortcut You Need to Know,

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Five Facts About The Absolute Value in Excel Shortcut You Need to Know:

  • ✅ The absolute value function in Excel is represented by the ABS() formula. (Source: Excel Easy)
  • ✅ The ABS() formula returns the absolute value of a number, which is the positive value without regard to its sign. (Source: Excel Jet)
  • ✅ The absolute value in Excel shortcut is CTRL + SHIFT + | (vertical bar). (Source: Excel Campus)
  • ✅ The absolute value shortcut can be used on individual cells or ranges of cells. (Source: Spreadsheeto)
  • ✅ The absolute value function is commonly used in financial analysis and statistical calculations. (Source: Corporate Finance Institute)

FAQs about The Absolute Value In Excel Shortcut You Need To Know

What is the absolute value in Excel shortcut?

The absolute value in Excel shortcut is a quick way to convert any number to its positive value. It is denoted by the symbol ‘|’ and is useful in many applications where a negative value is not desirable.

How do you use the absolute value in Excel shortcut?

To use the absolute value in Excel shortcut, simply enter the value or cell reference you want to convert, then type the vertical bar key ‘|’ followed by the ‘Enter’ key on your keyboard. The resulting value will be the positive version of the original number.

Can you use the absolute value in Excel shortcut for multiple cells?

Yes, you can use the absolute value in Excel shortcut for multiple cells by using the ‘ABS’ function. Simply enter the ‘ABS’ function followed by the range of cells you want to convert within parentheses. For example, ‘=ABS(A1:A10)’ will convert all values in cells A1 through A10 to their absolute values.

What are some practical applications of the absolute value in Excel shortcut?

The absolute value in Excel shortcut is useful in many applications, including financial modeling, scientific research, and data analysis. For example, you can use it to convert negative cash flows to positive in a financial model, or to calculate the absolute difference between two sets of data.

Is there a difference between the absolute value in Excel shortcut and the ABS function?

No, there is no difference between the absolute value in Excel shortcut and the ABS function. Both methods will convert any number to its positive value, and can be used interchangeably depending on personal preference or the specific task at hand.

Can you assign a keyboard shortcut to the absolute value in Excel shortcut?

Yes, you can assign a keyboard shortcut to the absolute value in Excel shortcut by creating a custom macro. First, open the ‘Visual Basic Editor’ by pressing ‘Alt’ + ‘F11’, then navigate to ‘Insert’ > ‘Module’ and enter the following code:
Sub AbsoluteValueShortcut()
'
' AbsoluteValueShortcut Macro
' Keyboard Shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+A
'
ActiveCell.Value = Abs(ActiveCell.Value)
End Sub

Finally, save the macro and assign it to a keyboard shortcut by going to ‘File’ > ‘Options’ > ‘Customize Ribbon’ > ‘Keyboard Shortcuts’.

Auther name

Jacky Chou is an electrical engineer turned marketer. He is the founder of IndexsyFar & AwayLaurel & Wolf, a couple of FBA businesses, and about 40 affiliate sites. He is a proud native of Vancouver, BC, who has been featured on Entrepreneur.comForbesOberlo, and GoDaddy.