Use Named Constants to Store Numbers


December 03, 2021 - by Bill Jelen

Use Named Constants to Store Numbers

Problem: I’ve seen how to assign a name to a cell. Is it also possible to assign a name to a constant? That could be useful for a number, such as a local sales tax rate, that changes periodically.

Strategy: Yes, you can assign names to constants. To do so, you follow these steps:


  • 1. Select Formula, Define Name.

  • 2. In the New Name dialog, type a name such as SalesTax in the Name text box. In the Refers To box, type 0.065 and then click OK.



  • 3. In this workbook, you can now use a formula such as =SalesTax*D2.

A formula in E2 is =SalesTax*D2. The Edit Name box is open, showing how SalesTax is defined as =0.065.
Figure 200. A defined name holds 6.5%.
  • 4. If the tax rate changes later, select Formulas, Name Manager. In the Name Manager, select the constant’s name and click Edit.


This article is an excerpt from Power Excel With MrExcel

Title photo by XPS on Unsplash