---
title: "Formulas in the Data Editor"
description: "Calculate totals, percentages, and other values with formulas and fixed cell references"
---

Use formulas to calculate values directly in Grunt's [Data Editor](/powerpoint-add-in/user/data-editor). Start with `=`, reference cells, and use functions such as `SUM`.

## Calculate a total

1. Open the Data Editor from the pencil icon in the edge menu, or double-click a chart.
2. Select the cell where the result should appear.
3. Type `=su` and press `Tab` to autocomplete `SUM`.
4. Select the cells to add and finish the formula, for example `=SUM(B2:B4)`.
5. Press `Enter` to calculate the result.

<Frame caption="Autocomplete suggests SUM as you enter a formula">
  <img src="/images/powerpoint-add-in/support/use-formulas-in-the-data-editor-02.png" alt="Autocomplete suggests SUM as you enter a formula" width="505" height="320" />
</Frame>

## Calculate a share of a total

If column B contains revenue and `B5` contains the total, enter this in `C2`:

```text
=B2/$B$5
```

Fill the formula down to calculate the share for each product. The relative reference `B2` changes to `B3`, `B4`, and so on. The dollar signs keep `$B$5` fixed.

<Frame caption="Revenue and share-of-total calculations in the Data Editor">
  <img src="/images/powerpoint-add-in/support/use-formulas-in-the-data-editor-03.png" alt="Revenue and share-of-total calculations in the Data Editor" width="552" height="425" />
</Frame>

## Keep a reference fixed

When editing a formula, use `F4` on the reference you want to lock. Check the formula bar to confirm the dollar signs are on the intended row and column.

<Frame caption="Dollar signs keep the total reference fixed when filling a formula">
  <img src="/images/powerpoint-add-in/support/use-formulas-in-the-data-editor-04.png" alt="Dollar signs keep the total reference fixed when filling a formula" width="168" height="129" />
</Frame>

## Fill formulas and patterns

Use autofill to extend formulas or patterns such as numbers, dates, and weekdays. You can also select a range and use `Ctrl` + `D` to fill down or `Ctrl` + `R` to fill right.

Check the copied formulas when you mix relative and fixed references.

## Display percentages

A share such as `0.25` may initially appear as a decimal. To show it as a percentage:

1. Select the result cells in the Visual Grid.
2. Add a **Number format** rule using the **+** button or `Ctrl` + `Enter`.
3. Activate **Magnitude** and choose **Percentages**.
4. Set the number of decimal places you want.

Number formatting changes how the result appears, while preserving its numeric value. See [Number format rule](/powerpoint-add-in/user/rules-text-and-number#number-format-rule).

## Formulas in Excel-connected grids

The **Visual Grid** tab includes changes you make in Grunt. The Excel data tab stays read-only so you can compare those changes with the source workbook.

Editing an Excel-linked cell creates an override; it does not write a formula or value back to Excel. Right-click **Reset cells to original value** or use **Clear all** to return to the source values. If the calculation belongs in your source model, maintain it in Excel and refresh the connection instead.