Which term describes a predefined calculation that can be used within formulas in Excel?

• A. Macro
• B. Script
• C. Formula
• D. Function

Answer: (D)

In Excel, a function is a predefined calculation you call by name, passing arguments to it. It encapsulates a built-in operation, like adding a set of numbers with SUM, averaging values with AVERAGE, or making a conditional check with IF. You place a function inside a formula, for example =SUM(A1:A10) or =IF(B2>100, "Yes", "No"), and Excel handles the actual calculation for you.

The key idea is that a function provides a ready-made calculation algorithm. A formula, by contrast, is the broader expression you create that can combine operators, cell references, constants, and possibly functions. So a function is a building block inside formulas, representing a specific, predefined calculation. Macros automate tasks, and scripts are automation code—neither is the predefined calculation described here.