Named ranges
Many Excel formulas require the specification of one or more ranges of cells as arguments. In many cases the easiest way to indicate such a range is to select it using keystrokes and/or a mouse as the formula is typed. For clarity, we adopt an alternative approach, using only named ranges in our formulas and statements. Since names remain with the formulas and statements, it is easy to change the physical range of cells to which a name applies whenever results are desired for a different range of inputs. Perhaps more important, the use of appropriate range names can greatly improve the readability of a set of formulas or statements.
The safest way to assign a name to a range of cells is to first select it, then choose Insert Name Define from the menu, followed by the desired name. Be certain to avoid names that look like cell locations or combinations of them (e.g. A22). In Excel, range names are not case sensitive. Thus Prices, prices and PRICES are considered the same name.
To select a named range, choose Edit Go to (or the equivalent key), followed by the range name. Alternatively, use the drop-down list of names located just above and to the left of the spreadsheet. When a named range is selected, the name will appear in the window for this list. (In fact, you can name ranges by selecting them, then typing the name in this box; however, this sometimes allows conflicts to creep in and should be avoided).
Once you have named a range, you may use it in any formula that allows for a range as an argument. As indicated earlier, we will always choose this alternative.
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