Using Excel Formulas in MS Project

by Jim Clayton, Microsoft Certification for Office Suite and MS Project

MS Project users can utilize any Excel formula or function in MS Project tables. For example, you can employ the “IF Statement” to identify/indicate task duration variance between base-lined duration and actual duration.

To use an Excel formula or function in MS Project, you must utilize a “Number” field (there are 20 in versions 2003 and 2007). After inserting the field, right-click on it and select “Customize Fields.” Select the “rename” command and give the field a permanent name. Then select the “formula” command and build your function/formula. If you find formulas and functions difficult, consult Project Help, which is helpful in determining the proper syntax. To access Help, press the F1 key and in the search field type “Project functions for custom fields.”

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