Function Basics Excel has a library of functions that allows you to quickly make specific calculations. Functions in Excel take arguments. Most functions will require at least one argument. Arguments can be a range of data, a specified output, or other parameters, depending on the particular function.
Arguments are typically presented in parentheses following the function.
To set up a worksheet so numbers automatically display in your chosen formats, apply the appropriate numeric data formats to the cells before you enter the numbers in them.