E. Coli Results Comparison Formula for Excel

Excel Formula for Comparing E. Coli Results with Standards

Overview

This document outlines the creation of an Excel formula that will help compare E. coli results against predetermined standards. The formula will flag results as "Pass" or "Fail" based on whether they meet or exceed the established criteria.

Assumptions

• The E. coli results are located in column A (starting from cell A2).
• The standard threshold for E. coli is defined in cell B1.

Formula Creation

To compare the results, you can use the following Excel formula in cell B2:

Formula: =IF(A2 <= $B$1, "Pass", "Fail")

Explanation of the Formula

1. IF Function: This is a logical function that checks whether a condition is met and returns one value for TRUE and another for FALSE.
   • Syntax: IF(logical_test, value_if_true, value_if_false)
2. Logical Test: A2 <= $B$1
   • This checks if the E. coli result in cell A2 is less than or equal to the standard threshold present in cell B1.
3. Value if TRUE: "Pass"
   • The result will be labeled as "Pass" if the condition is fulfilled.
4. Value if FALSE: "Fail"
   • The result will be labeled as "Fail" if the condition is not met.
5. Absolute Reference: The $ signs in $B$1 ensure that the reference to the standard threshold remains constant as you drag the formula down.

Practical Example

Consider the following dataset:

Using the formula in B2 and dragging it down:

Conclusion

By employing the formula =IF(A2 <= $B$1, "Pass", "Fail"), users can efficiently assess E. coli results against established standards in an Excel spreadsheet. This formula provides a clear and effective method for compliance checks.

Further Learning

For additional information and advanced techniques in data analysis, consider exploring the courses available on the Enterprise DNA Platform.