Feature Overview Video
Formula fields let you calculate values automatically based on data from other fields. From simple arithmetic to advanced computations, Formula fields bring your data to life with flexibility and precision.
Plan Availability | All plan types |
Permissions | Solution Managers: Can create, modify, and manage Formula fields |
Related Reading |
Feature Overview Video
What Are Formula Fields?
Formula fields are computed fields that allow you to:
Perform Calculations: Multiply, add, or divide numeric fields.
Apply Logic: Use conditions to determine values.
Create Text Outputs: Combine strings or format text from other fields.
Example Use Case:
Calculate the total shipment weight by multiplying Weight by Quantity.
Note: Visit our Formula Operators & Functions solution template for those that are hands-on learners. It has basic formulas already set up so you can see how the information changes as you modify the example data, or even use the examples to create your own more complex formulas.
How to Add a Formula Field
From Grid View
Open the Column Menu by clicking the dropdown icon in a column header or the + menu icon after the last column header.
Select Formula from the list.
Configure the field in the pop-up window.
From Record View
Open a record.
Click the + sign next to a current field or use the Add New Field button at the bottom.
Select or type Formula and configure the field. The new field will appear below the selected field.
You can also add fields in open Record View by clicking the "..." menu icon that appears in the right-hand corner of any existing field when hovering over it, and selecting "Add New Field."
Select or type Formula, and a window will open to configure the field. The new field is added directly below the existing field.
Once you've added the field, open its properties. You will see something like this:
To get into the Advanced Editor options, simply toggle the Advanced Editor at the bottom left of the window and the display will open:
Configuring Your Formula Field
Once added, configure the field using the Formula Builder:
Name the Field: Choose a name that reflects the value the formula will produce.
Write the Formula: Use the text box labeled Write formula here.
Reference other fields, functions, or operators.
Suggestions appear in the lower-left corner for fields and functions. Click Use to insert them into your formula.
Enable Advanced Editor: Toggle the Advanced Editor for additional tools and options.
Output Types: Formulas can produce text, numbers, or dates, which can be used in saved views, charts, and reports.
Adding In-Line Comments
Use the # symbol to add comments in the Formula Builder. Comments are ignored by the system and help document the purpose or dependencies of your formula.
Example:
# Calculate total cost with tax Amount * (1 + TaxRate)
Formula Field Reference Guide
We've put together a list of all Formatting, Functions, & Operators as an area to easily reference everything you need to know about how to use a Formula Field, or you can also take a look at our dedicated help article as well.
You can also find Text, Date, and Numeric examples in our Formula Operators & Functions solution template for those that like to learn by doing. It has basic formulas already set up so you can see how the information changes as you modify the example data, or even use the examples to create your own more complex formulas.
Formulas vs. Other Computed Fields
Computed fields like Lookup, Count, and Rollup fields automatically generate values based on linked records or system-generated data. However, Formula fields stand out because they allow:
Custom Computations: Apply functions, operators, and logic to tailor outputs.
Flexibility: Formulas are special in this list of computed fields because Solution Managers have the ability to use a range of functions and operators to customize the output of the formula. Where a Count Field could be used to add up numbers from Linked Records (for example, adding up the total amounts for linked invoice records), a Formula allows you to do that and more - perhaps conditionally adding a tax amount if the record is marked as taxable.
Practical Scenarios and Use Cases
1. Shipment Calculations
Scenario: A logistics team tracks shipment weights.
Solution: Use a Formula field to calculate the total weight by multiplying Weight by Quantity.
2. Conditional Taxation
Scenario: A finance team calculates total amounts, including tax, for invoices.
Solution: Apply a formula to add tax only if the record is marked Taxable.
3. HR Scoring
Scenario: An HR team assesses candidates using multiple evaluation criteria.
Solution: Create a Formula field to compute an overall score based on weighted averages.
Why Choose Formula Fields?
Versatility: Perform complex computations tailored to your data.
Real-Time Updates: Automatically recalculate values as field data changes.
Streamlined Workflows: Simplify processes by automating calculations.
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