Formulas 3 Ways

[Lenny]

In Word 2003, calculations can be placed into a table cell in at least 3 ways:
1. On the Insert dropdown as insert field and select =(Formula) (Note:
this does not insert a form field, just the code)
2. On the Table dropdown by selecting 'Formula' (which does insert a form
field)
3. On the Forms Toolbar by selecting 'Text Form Field' and from the
dropdown, change the definition to 'Calculation'.

Why three different ways of adding a calculation? Are there instances where
one is preferable over another? Do the differences affect the manner in
which the calculation is handled (i.e., form field vs no form field)? I can
see that the two methods that actually drop in a form field provide an
opportunity to add a bookmark that the first method does not.....

Does anyone have an explanation or is there an explanation?

best regards - Lenny

 

[Tom Conrad]

Many of the functions within Microsoft programs, e.g., windows, Office suite,
etc., have multiple access paths. This is more a reflection of the programs
lineage, as well as a reflection of the microsoft sales and marketing
strategies than of functionality.

In the days of MS-DOS, the power users acquired personal memories filled
with command line syntax and keyboard shortcuts. When Apple software began to
capture market share because of the GUI interface, then microsoft gave us
windows. New users learned to point and click, command line junkies, despised
that it took repetitive roll, click, roll, click, roll click, ad infinitium
cycles to execute a function that previouly took a three key command.

As Win and Office continued to develop, and microsoft tried to attract
Wordperfect customers, the programs acquired more menus, more keyboard
shortcuts, more submenus, ....

An Iconic interface using toolbars (or the ribbon) can be easier for new
users. It is often a pain in the keester for more advanced users, as it
requires the advanced user to drill down through multiple and redundant
layers to perform a function.

Regarding multi-paths, some of the paths provide higher levels of control or
assistance for the less experienced user. Many experienced users utilize
keyboard shortcuts, macros, etc. to reduce the mileage on their mouse, and to
reduce wear and tear on their index finger.

A formula Field code executes the same regardless of the entry method.

--
Tom Conrad

===

In Word 2003, calculations can be placed into a table cell in at least 3 ways:
1. On the Insert dropdown as insert field and select =(Formula) (Note:
this does not insert a form field, just the code)