Automatically calculate numerical value when a letter is entered

[soulsrfing]

I am trying to create a spreadsheet where I enter a letter value, in this
case grades (A, A-, B+, B, etc) and have the next cell over (adjacent to the
right) automatically enter the corresponding numerical value (4, 3.7, 3.3,
3.0, etc). I know how to get the average in the final column, I just can't
figure out how to get the grades to automatically enter into the spreadsheet.
I can create another sheet with the underlying values (A=4.0), but can't get
the right syntax to perform the operation. Any help would be greatly
appreciated.

 

[jpdphd]

I am trying to create a spreadsheet where I enter a letter value, in this
case grades (A, A-, B+, B, etc) and have the next cell over (adjacent to the
right) automatically enter the corresponding numerical value (4, 3.7, 3.3,
3.0, etc). I know how to get the average in the final column, I just can't
figure out how to get the grades to automatically enter into the spreadsheet.
I can create another sheet with the underlying values (A=4.0), but can't get
the right syntax to perform the operation. Any help would be greatly
appreciated.

Stephanie,

Today, I learned how to use the VLOOKUP function (thanks to a JE
McGimpsey posting) and what do you know, that's the solution to your
problem, too!
In some area of the spread sheet, put the letter grades in 1 column
and the number equivalents in the adjacent one. Let's say the range is
T1:U10. Then, if there's a letter grade in cell A1, enter the formula
below into another cell
=VLOOKUP(A1,$T$1:$U$10,2,FALSE)
Copy it wherever else it is needed. The $s make sure that the array
range does not change as you copy.

jpdphd

 

[soulsrfing]

Excellent! Works like a charm Thanks so much. I know where to come the
next time I have trouble.

Have a great day!