Array Functions

Most functions return a calculated value in the same cell in which the function was entered. Array functions are a special kind of function that return data to a range of cells instead of to just one cell.

For example, the TRANSPOSE function, which takes a range of cells as its argument, returns a new range of cells in which the rows from the original range are now columns and the original columns are now rows.

When discussing array functions, we distinguish between two different types of ranges: the argument range is the range of cells that appear between the parentheses of an array function. The results range is the range of cells in which the data computed by the function will be displayed.

The following functions are array functions:

FREQUENCY LINEST TRANSPOSE

GROWTH LOGEST TREND

INDEX (array type) MMULT

FREQUENCY	LINEST	TRANSPOSE
GROWTH	LOGEST	TREND
INDEX (array type)	MMULT

Entering Array Functions

To enter an array function:

Select a results range. Some functions require the results range to contain a certain number of columns or rows. A too-small results range will not show all of the function results; a too-large results range will display error messages in some cells. Check the documentation on the specific function for information about the required size and shape of the results range.
In the results range you selected, type in the equals sign, the array function keyword, and the argument(s) or argument range(s), in parentheses.
To enter the function, press ENTER while holding down CONTROL and SHIFT. (If you simply press ENTER, the array function will return the #VALUE! error.)

Most normal functions can be used as array functions to return the same calculation to a range of cells. To do this, select a range, type in the function, and hold down CONTROL and SHIFT while pressing ENTER.

About Results Ranges

All the cells in the results range of an array function will contain the calculated array function. When you select one of these cells, the function displayed in the formula bar will be enclosed in curly brackets {}. Do not enter these brackets yourself.

Note Results ranges for array functions must be edited as a unit. After you enter an array function, you can change the format of individual cells in the results range, but you cannot edit the data in individual cells. If you try, Formula One for Java will display an error message. To change any of the data in a results range, you must select all the cells and change them all at once.