Formula vs Trick in Excel | Which One Is Better?

Are you an Excel user who loves shortcuts, or someone who sticks to formulas for accuracy? In this blog, we’ll compare formulas vs tricks — and find out which one is better for different tasks! 🚀

🧮 1. Adding Numbers

Formula:

=SUM(A1:A5)

Trick:

• Select the range
• Look at the status bar (bottom-right corner) — Excel automatically shows the Sum.

✅ When to Use:

• Use the formula when you want the sum to update dynamically.
• Use the trick for quick checks.

✂️ 2. Removing Spaces

Formula:

=TRIM(A1)

Trick:

• Use Find & Replace (Ctrl+H)
• Find: Space → Replace with: (leave blank)

✅ When to Use:

• Formula keeps original data intact in another column.
• Trick modifies data instantly.

🧠 3. Make Text Upper Case

Formula:

=UPPER(A1)

Trick:

• Flash Fill (Ctrl+E) after typing the uppercase version next to your data.

✅ When to Use:

• Flash Fill is fast for small datasets.
• Formulas are better for large, dynamic sheets.

🛠️ 4. Remove Duplicates

Formula:

=UNIQUE(A1:A10)

(Only in Excel 365+)

Trick:

• Select data → Go to Data → Click Remove Duplicates

✅ When to Use:

• Use formula if you need real-time unique list.
• Use trick for permanent cleaning.

🔄 5. Combine First and Last Name

Formula:

=CONCATENATE(A2," ",B2)

Trick:

• Type one full name → Hit Ctrl+E for Flash Fill.

🎯 Final Verdict: Formula or Trick?

Both formulas and tricks have their place. If you want speed, tricks win. If you need accuracy and scalability, formulas are your best friend.

💡 Pro Tip: Combine both for maximum productivity!

Example: