what does {} mean?

[Debbie16]

Hi,

I'm trying to edit this already existing formula:
{=SUM(IF((C_top100=100)*(RIGHT(rr_passed,2)="ND"),1,0))}

When I select the cell, it has these {} brackets around the formula, but once I click on the formula bar, it disappears:
=SUM(IF((C_top100=100)*(RIGHT(rr_passed,2)="ND"),1,0))

Both "C_top100" and "rr_passed" represent a range (column), but once the {} disappears, the formula only refers to the cells in the same row, not the whole range anymore.

How should I edit the formula to make it refer to the whoole range (column)?

Thanks!

[shg]

They indicate an array formula, for which you can find numerous examples and explanations both here and elsewhere.

Array formulas MUST be confirmed with Ctrl+Shift+Enter (including when you get done editing them), not Enter. You'll know you did it correctly if the curly braces reappear around the formula in the Formula Bar; you cannot type in the braces directly.

[Debbie16]

thanks so much!!!
=)