subtract a positive from a negative

[wolfman]

I need a formula that will subtract positive numbers from negative numbers
"and" negative numbers from positive, with the answer in the correct form,
ie; positive or negative.

All numbers refer to either a gain or loss in quantity
Row 1 values are taken from one source
Row 2 values are taken from another source
I need a formula for row 3 to give me the total gain or loss represented in
each column.

Example
A B
1 (20.5) 17 Row 1
2 1.5 (2) Minus Row 2
3 (19) 15 Equal Row 3

 

[Gord Dibben]

Just add the numbers.

=A1+A2 returns (19)

=B1+B2 returns 15


Gord Dibben MS Excel MVP

 

[Gary''s Student]

Because your numbers are already "signed" changes, you do not need to
subtract. So in A3 enter =A1+A2
so in B3 enter =B1+B2

 

[wolfman]

Thanks to those who have responded but this example is just one caculation
for a very large spreadsheet where I need to input a formula into the entire
width of row 3 that will handle subtracting row 2 from row 1 no matter what
the sign. In my origional post I forgot to include the other 2 sign
combinations that will be calculated so here are all of them


Example
A B
1 (20.5) 17 20 (10) Row 1
2 1.5 (2) 10 (5) Minus Row 2
3 (19) 15 10 (5) Equal Row 3

 

[Rick Rothstein \(MVP - VB\)]

Try this then...

In A3... = ABS(A1)-ABS(A2)

and copy across.

Rick

 

[Pete_UK]

So, are you saying that you want to subtract the second (row 2) number
if the signs are the same, otherwise add the numbers?

If so, try this in A3:

=IF(A1*A2>0,A1-A2,A1+A2)

Copy across as required.

Hope this helps.

Pete

 

[kmaaschmidt]

Gord Dibben and ALL,
Just wanted to say "Thank You". Actualy, "Thank You" to everyone who posts! I ALWAYS use the internet,forums, etc/ to find answers to many things. I was stuck on a "SIMPLE" thing in Excel and found your post. It may not seem that the little information is very important but in-fact they help soooooo much. I appreciate ALL the post people do.

Thanks Again!!!
kmaa

 

[Gord Dibben]

Gord Dibben says "you're welcome"

Gord