How do I...
Work backward to a target number (Goal Seek)
What to do
- Set up a cell with a formula that gives your result.
- Go to Data, then What-If Analysis, then Goal Seek.
- Set cell: pick the formula cell.
- To value: type your target.
- By changing cell: pick the input, and click OK.
Good to know
- It changes one input only.
- The input must hold a number, not a formula.
- For several inputs, use the Solver add-in.
The idea in general
It tries numbers until the answer hits your target.
What I assumed
- You are using Excel on a computer. Menus can look a little different on a Mac or in a browser.