SCAN in WPS Spreadsheet is a built-in function for scanning an array in sequence and returning cumulative results at each step; this guide covers 3 core tasks, with 3 available without membership and 0 membership-related items.
At a Glance
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Core tasks | 3 | Matches the number of rows in the How-to Index |
| Available without membership | 3 | Matches the number of Free rows in the index |
| Membership-related items | 0 | All listed tasks are available directly |
About This Feature
Overview
SCAN is a built-in function in WPS Spreadsheet for sequential calculations, staged summaries, and dynamic array processing. You can enter it through the Insert Function dialog box, type it directly in a cell or the formula bar, and review syntax or parameter details before confirming the formula.
Common use cases include cumulative calculations, generating step-by-step intermediate results, checking parameter structure, and reviewing help information before entering a formula.
System Requirements
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Operating system | A Windows PC that can run WPS Office normally |
| App version | It is recommended to use the latest version of WPS Office for full function support and help access |
| Network | No mandatory internet connection is required for entering or calculating the function itself; internet access is needed for the download page or online help |
| Other | You need access to WPS Spreadsheet and permission to edit the worksheet |
Download & Installation
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Official download | WPS Office Free Download |
| Installation notes | After downloading and installing WPS Office, open WPS Spreadsheet to use SCAN-related entry points |
| Post-install check | Launch WPS Spreadsheet, open the Formula tab, and confirm that entries such as Insert Function are available |
Source: WPS download page
Compare with Alternatives
| Dimension | WPS | Microsoft | Notion | Adobe | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capability Summary | SCAN is a built-in spreadsheet function that can be entered through the Insert Function dialog box, direct formula input, and syntax/help review. | Microsoft Word supports formulas in tables for calculations and logical comparisons, but this is designed for document tables rather than spreadsheet dynamic array functions. | Google Sheets supports spreadsheet formulas for calculations and data analysis in a collaborative online spreadsheet environment. | Notion formulas are used in database properties for calculations based on properties, built-ins, and functions. | Adobe Acrobat supports calculation fields in PDF forms for form-based data collection and result updates. |
| WPS Advantages | Advantage: SCAN works directly in worksheet cells for sequential calculations and array-style results. Distinct: WPS provides both direct formula entry and an Insert Function path for reviewing parameters before input. | Compared with WPS: formula support is centered on Word table calculations, so the workflow differs from worksheet function entry. | Compared with WPS: it supports spreadsheet formulas in the cloud, while the referenced help page is broader and focused on Sheets learning resources. | Compared with WPS: formulas apply to database properties instead of worksheet cells and formula bars. | Compared with WPS: calculation features are focused on PDF form fields rather than spreadsheet function editing. |
| Official Source | — | Use a formula in a Word table | Google Sheets training and help | Intro to formulas | Configure form field calculations in Acrobat |
Overall Conclusion
WPS SCAN is better suited to worksheet-based sequential calculations and array results on Windows. Compared with document-table formulas, database formulas, or PDF form calculations, its workflow is closer to everyday spreadsheet function entry and review.
Use Cases
| No. | Scenario | Suitable for | Main need | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cumulative result calculation | Finance staff and data organizers | Need to review each cumulative step | Enter the SCAN formula directly in a cell |
| 2 | Function parameter checking | New users and office users | Need help with parameter order and structure | Use the Insert Function dialog box to review and fill parameters |
| 3 | Formula learning and troubleshooting | Users learning a new function | Need to understand syntax before entry | Review syntax and help details before entering the formula |
Membership & Benefits
Free vs WPS Premium
| Capability | Free users | WPS Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Use the SCAN function for basic calculations | ✅ | ✅ |
| Basic PDF features | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cloud storage | 1 GB | 20 GB |
| Template resources | Limited access | More advanced templates and related benefits |
| Some AI tools | Limited access | Available with daily usage limit notes |
Source: WPS Office pricing page
Recommendations
| Usage scenario | Recommended plan | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Daily formula entry and learning SCAN | Free | It already supports formula entry, syntax review, and basic spreadsheet calculations |
| Ongoing work that also needs more cloud storage, templates, or extended office features | WPS Premium | Better suited to users with broader productivity and resource needs |
How to Subscribe
- WPS membership center: Subscribe now
Source: WPS Office pricing page