Question 1
A formula must equal 20,000. Which tool can find the input value that makes it so?
Use Goal Seek. Set the formula cell to 20,000 by changing the relevant input cell.
What to learn
Consolidate data from several ranges, group records and calculate subtotals. What-if scenarios compare different assumptions; Goal Seek finds an input needed to reach a target result.
- Consolidation combines corresponding values from multiple ranges.
- Subtotals summarise data after it is grouped or sorted.
- A scenario stores a set of input values for comparison.
- Goal Seek works backward from a desired formula result to an input value.
Practical activity
Build a monthly budget. Use subtotals for spending categories, create low/base/high income scenarios, then use Goal Seek to find the monthly saving needed to reach a target balance.
Use your school’s prescribed software version and teacher instructions. Keep personal information out of public practice files.
Solved CBSE-style questions
These questions and answers are original practice written for this guide; they are not copied from past papers.
Question 2
Why sort data before creating grouped subtotals?
Sorting places each category together, allowing the spreadsheet to calculate a subtotal at each group boundary.
Question 3
What is a what-if scenario?
It is a saved set of input values that lets the user compare possible outcomes while keeping the same formula structure.
Revision checklist
- Can I explain the key terms without memorising a definition alone?
- Can I complete the listed practical task and describe each step?
- Can I apply the idea to a new example and explain why my answer works?
Aligned to the CBSE 2026–27 syllabus outline. Check the official subject curriculum and your school’s textbook/material for the prescribed scope.