Step 1: Research is a valuable tool to help you learn how to use Excel to conduct financial math calculations. There are also numerous websites that will discuss the same topics! Try using search terms related to the topics covered in class, for example:

• interest rates
• compounding periods
• future value
• present value

Find and bookmark a few sites or videos that discuss the use of Excel with these calculations.

Step 2: Prepare your Excel Spreadsheet

Open a new Microsoft Excel Workbook.

Make sure you have two sheets. Label (rename) them as follows:

• Sheet1: Excel Formulas
• Sheet2: Sample Problem

Step 3: Excel Formulas (Sheet1)

In the Sheet you renamed "Excel Formulas", in cells A1 and A2, paste the links from the websites or videos that helped you understand how to use Excel for financial math calculations. Be sure to list them all.

Starting below your list of sites or videos, and working in a column, list the following variables:

• FV
• PV
• IY
• i
• CY
• N

Beside each variable, describe the meaning of that variable

Beside i and N, describe how you could use Excel to help you calculate these variables. Hint: there isn't a formula, and you might simply use multiplication or division (which can ALSO be done in Excel)!

Beside FV and PV, describe how you would use Excel to calculate these variables. List any formulas you might use. If there are multiple ways in which you could calculate FV or PV, include them.

Step 4: Sample Problem

Create a Problem

Now is your chance to put your new skills into action. In the Sheet you renamed "Sample Problem", in cell A1, create your own financial math problem in which you are solving for the future or present value (your choice)! Adjust the formatting of this Sheet to make it more visually appealing and clear.

The problem you create must be an INDIVIDUAL and unique problem with a context or purpose. For example, I like camping, so I might include a problem about the amount of money I need for a big camping trip!