Data Analysis Tools - Solver

A more advanced form of goal seeking is available through the Solver tool. While the Goal Seek tool sets a specified target cell to a specified value by varying the value of one other cell, Solver is able to vary more than one input cell to produce a solution. Here is an example which solves simultaneous equations:

  1. Enter the equations in cells C5 and C6 as shown;
  2. Select Solver from the Tools menu;
  3. Set the Target Cell, the Changing Cells and the Constraints as shown;
  4. Click the Solve button;
  5. Solver reports on its success; click OK to keep the answers on the worksheet

You should have A5=3 and B5=2. You could use Solver to find the answer to simultaneous equations with three or more variables. For three variables, say x, y and z, use columns A, B and C for the solutions and column D for the formulae.

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