RATE returns the #NUM! error value

[Guest]

I am trying to use the RATE function, and I am at a loss for why I always get
the #NUM! error. I viewed this document:
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/assistance/HP052092321033.aspx. I tried
referencing values within cells as well as entering them directly into the
formula, both failed. Any ideas?

 

[Chip Pearson]

Post the exact formula you are using.


--
Cordially,
Chip Pearson
Microsoft MVP - Excel
Pearson Software Consulting, LLC
www.cpearson.com
1

 

[Guest]

I figured it out... FV MUST BE a negative number.

 

[Guest]

For reference for others:
the syntax: =RATE(Nper,Pmt,Pv,Fv)
this is what failed: =RATE(3,65,1072.29,1000)
this is what worked: =RATE(3,65,-1072.29,1000)

 

[Chip Pearson]

More precisely, the PV and FV values must have opposite signs.


--
Cordially,
Chip Pearson
Microsoft MVP - Excel
Pearson Software Consulting, LLC
www.cpearson.com