How to use Pi in Google Sheets
In mathematics, π (pi) is a mathematical constant that represents the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter. It is an irrational number, which means it cannot be expressed as a simple fraction and its decimal representation goes on forever without repeating. The value of π is approximately 3.14159, but it is often approximated as 3.14 for simplicity in calculations. In Excel, there is a specific function of Pi to calculate values.
In this Excel tutorial, we will explore the functionality of the “PI” function, which allows us to calculate the circumference of a circle. Additionally, we will discover how to insert the π (pi) symbol as text within cells. By mastering these techniques, you will gain valuable skills in utilizing mathematical constants and enhancing your Excel spreadsheets with precise calculations and visual representations.
Case 1 – Using the “PI” Function to calculate the circumference
Understanding Function and its Syntax
The “PI” function in Excel is a built-in mathematical function that returns the value of π (pi), which is approximately 3.14159.
The syntax of the “PI” function is as follows:
=PI()
The function does not require any arguments or parameters, so you simply use the function name followed by opening and closing parentheses. When the function is used in a cell, it will automatically return the value of π. This value can then be used in mathematical calculations within Excel, such as calculating the circumference or area of a circle.
Step 1 – Select the cell
- Select any empty cell in which you wish to find the circumference of the circle
- We will use the “PI” Function in this cell to get our desired results.
Step 2 – Write the formula and implement it
- In the chosen cell, start by entering the equal sign (=) to initiate the formula.
- Next, type “2*PI()” to incorporate the 2 multiplied by the value of π (pi) into the formula.
- Following that, insert an asterisk () to indicate multiplication.
- Then, specify the cell reference B2 as the value that will be multiplied by 2π.
- Now that you have followed all the steps above, your formula would look like this,
=2*PI()*B2)
- Then, press Enter and your answer would appear.
- If you want to implement the formula to the whole range then click on the “tick ✔” option of the Auto-fill.
Case 2 – Inserting the “PI (π)” symbol
Step 1 – Select the cell
- Select any empty cell in which you can apply the “CHAR” function to get the “PI (π)” symbol.
Step 2 – Write the formula
- After selecting the cell, write the following formula in the cell
=CHAR(960)
- It will give you the result as a “π” symbol.
Step 3 – Paste the “π” as Plain text
- After we get the “π” symbol, copy it because we want to paste it as text, not a formula.
- While writing the text where you want to insert it, right-click there and click on “Paste as Plain text” or use the shortcut key “Ctrl+Shift+V” to paste it as text.