Struggling to understand your overall grade? Or maybe you need to calculate portfolio performance? Learning how to calculate weighted average in Excel is your secret weapon! Unlike a simple average, a weighted average considers the *importance* (weight) of each number. Think of it this way: your final exam likely carries more weight than a pop quiz.
Here's the basic formula in Excel: **=SUMPRODUCT(values, weights)/SUM(weights)**
Let's break it down. `SUMPRODUCT` multiplies corresponding values and weights, then sums the results. `SUM(weights)` simply adds up all the weights. Divide the first result by the second, and *voila!* You've got your weighted average.
For example, if you have grades (values) in cells A1:A3 and their corresponding weights in B1:B3, the formula would be: `=SUMPRODUCT(A1:A3, B1:B3)/SUM(B1:B3)`. Mastering this simple formula unlocks a powerful tool for everything from academics to finance. Go forth and conquer your spreadsheets!
