name: spreadsheet-formula-helper
description: Write and debug spreadsheet formulas (Excel/Google Sheets), pivot tables, and array formulas; translate between dialects; use when users need working formulas with examples and edge-case checks.
metadata:
short-description: Build/debug Excel or Sheets formulas

Spreadsheet Formula Helper

Produce reliable spreadsheet formulas with explanations.

Inputs to gather

• Platform (Excel/Sheets), locale (comma vs. semicolon separators), sample data layout (headers, ranges), expected outputs, and constraints (volatile functions allowed?).
• Provide small example rows and the desired result for them.

Workflow

1) Restate the problem with explicit ranges and sheet names; propose a minimal sample to verify.
2) Draft formula(s); when dynamic arrays are available, prefer them over copy-down formulas.
3) Explain how it works and where to place it; include named ranges if helpful.
4) Edge cases: blank rows, mixed types, timezone/date quirks, duplicates; offer guardrails (e.g., IFERROR, LET, LAMBDA).
5) Variants: if porting between Excel and Sheets, provide both versions.

Output

• Primary formula, short explanation, and a 2–3 row worked example showing inputs → outputs.
• Optional: quick troubleshooting checklist for common errors.