How We Check Spreadsheet Formulas

Spreadsheet software can look similar while behaving differently. A function that works in one version of LibreOffice Calc, Apache OpenOffice Calc, or Gnumeric may be unavailable—or accept different arguments—in another. Our aim is to explain those differences rather than assume every spreadsheet works like Excel.

What our verification labels mean

• Native-tested: An indicated example formula was calculated using a specified version of that spreadsheet application, and its result was checked against the expected value. The exact version and the examples tested matter; this is not a claim that every input or previous release was tested.
• Reference-checked, not native-tested: The function and intended use were checked against the application’s official documentation or published function catalog, but the example was not executed in the named application. Results shown may also be checked mathematically or in a different application. They remain candidates for further native testing.
• Pending review: Content is still being researched and should not be treated as a complete, verified guide. These research drafts are not included in the public site build.

Older articles may not carry one of these labels. If a guide does not identify a tested application and version, do not assume it has passed a native-application test.

What we check in a function tutorial

1. Function availability: Confirm the name and its relevant version rather than automatically copying another program’s function list.
2. Syntax and argument order: Compare the arguments with application documentation. Calc normally uses semicolons in formulas; Gnumeric generally uses commas. Local settings may affect separators.
3. A repeatable example: State the input values, formula, and expected result. Cell references should use data a reader can recreate.
4. Common mistakes: Explain relevant data types, missing values, array behavior, limitations, and numerical caveats where appropriate.
5. Internal links and references: Link to nearby function guides and official documentation where available.

Array formulas, dates and number formatting

Array calculations may require special entry steps, especially across spreadsheet versions. Dates also depend on real date values, formats and locale settings; a displayed date string is not necessarily a valid date. Currency display, decimal symbols and result strings may vary by locale.

A guide should explain these limitations instead of suggesting that one screenshot or example proves universal compatibility.

How to interpret our test data

Some LibreOffice Calc guides contain formulas calculated in LibreOffice Calc 25.2.3.2 using reproducible test workbooks. A successful formula check establishes only the tested expression with its stated inputs, not every function option or every other spreadsheet program. Gnumeric and Apache OpenOffice examples must be verified in those applications before they can be described as native-tested there.

For authoritative definitions, see the LibreOffice Calc Help, Apache OpenOffice Calc function reference and Gnumeric function reference.

Content updates

When a formula is corrected, its explanation and expected result should be updated together. We avoid changing article dates solely to make old content appear newly published. Version notes and verification status should change only when supported by actual evidence.

For additional practice, browse the LibreOffice, OpenOffice and Gnumeric directories.