How to Use the ATAN Function in WPS on Windows

This how-to guide includes 4 topics for using the ATAN function, and all 4 are available without membership; choose a topic from the index and follow the steps.

How-to Index

How-to Guide

1. Enter the ATAN function

Entry point: Formulas tab → formula bar

1. Open WPS Spreadsheets and select the cell where you want to enter the formula.
2. Type = in the formula bar or directly in the cell.
3. Type ATAN( to start the function.
4. Enter the value or reference you want to calculate, then close the parenthesis.
5. Press Enter.

Success Criteria

• Interface result: The cell shows a calculation result.
• Next action: You can continue editing, copying, or filling the formula.

Tips While Using

• Common mistake: If you do not start with =, the content may be treated as plain text.
• Environment note: The argument should be a valid number or a valid cell reference.

2. View the syntax prompt

Entry point: Select a cell → start typing a formula

1. Select the target cell.
2. Type =ATAN(.
3. Watch for the syntax prompt that appears.
4. Use the prompt to confirm the required argument format.

Success Criteria

• Interface result: A syntax prompt appears while you type the function.
• Next action: You can continue entering the argument and complete the formula.

Tips While Using

• Common mistake: If the function name is misspelled, the expected prompt may not appear.

3. Use nested formulas or cross-sheet references

Entry point: Formula bar

1. Start a formula with = in the target cell.
2. Combine ATAN with other functions, or reference a cell from another worksheet.
3. Check that parentheses, separators, and references are correct.
4. Press Enter to calculate.

Success Criteria

• Interface result: The cell returns a valid result instead of an error.
• Next action: You can continue adjusting the reference range or nested structure.

Tips While Using

• Common mistake: Mismatched parentheses, missing separators, or incorrect references can cause formula errors.

4. Check and refresh calculation results

Entry point: Edit source data and review the result cell

1. Change the value or cell content referenced by the ATAN formula.
2. Check whether the result cell updates automatically.
3. If needed, use recalculation to verify the result again.
4. Confirm that the result matches the current data.

Success Criteria

• Interface result: The result updates when the source data changes.
• Next action: You can continue with analysis, saving, or exporting.

Tips While Using

• Common mistake: If the referenced value is stored as text or the referenced cell is abnormal, the result may not match expectations.