Calculates, or predicts, a future value by using existing values. The predicted value is a y-value for a given x-value. The known values are existing x-values and y-values, and the new value is predicted by using linear regression. You can use this function to predict future sales, inventory requirements, or consumer trends.
Syntax
FORECAST(x,known_y's,known_x's)
X is the data point for which you want to predict a value.
Known_y's is the dependent array or range of data.
Known_x's is the independent array or range of data.
Remarks
and:
Example
The example may be easier to understand if you copy it to a blank spreadsheet.
Selecting an example from Help
Known Y | Known X |
---|---|
6 | 20 |
7 | 28 |
9 | 31 |
15 | 38 |
21 | 40 |
Formula | Description (Result) |
=FORECAST(30,A2:A6,B2:B6) | Predicts a value for y given an x value of 30 (10.60725) |