4.6 Using Spreadsheets with Calc

Calc is the spreadsheet module of OpenOffice.org. Use this application to, for example, handle your private or business accounting data. If Writer (or any other OpenOffice.org application) is already running, start Calc by clicking FileNewSpreadsheet—or click ProgramsOfficeSpreadsheet on the main desktop menu.

After starting, Calc presents an empty spreadsheet divided into rows and columns. Rows are numbered from top to bottom and columns are lettered from left to right. The intersection of a row and a column marks the location of a cell, so each cell has a unique address coordinate. For instance, the address B3 refers to the cell located in the second column (B) and the third row. This address is also shown at the top to the left of the entry field.

A cell can be active or inactive. The currently active cell has a thick black frame around it. To activate another cell, move the frame with the arrow keys or click another cell with the mouse. You can edit a cell if it is currently active.