What is excel solver tool - Word и Excel - помощь в работе с программами

Solver is a Microsoft Excel add-in program you can use for what-if analysis. Use Solver to find an optimal (maximum or minimum) value for a formula in one cell — called the objective cell — subject to constraints, or limits, on the values of other formula cells on a worksheet. Solver works with a group of cells, called decision variables or simply variable cells that are used in computing the formulas in the objective and constraint cells. Solver adjusts the values in the decision variable cells to satisfy the limits on constraint cells and produce the result you want for the objective cell.

Put simply, you can use Solver to determine the maximum or minimum value of one cell by changing other cells. For example, you can change the amount of your projected advertising budget and see the effect on your projected profit amount.

Note: Versions of Solver prior to Excel 2007 referred to the objective cell as the «target cell,» and the decision variable cells as «changing cells» or «adjustable cells». Many improvements were made to the Solver add-in for Excel 2010, so if you’re using Excel 2007 your experience will be slightly different.

In the following example, the level of advertising in each quarter affects the number of units sold, indirectly determining the amount of sales revenue, the associated expenses, and the profit. Solver can change the quarterly budgets for advertising (decision variable cells B5:C5), up to a total budget constraint of $20,000 (cell F5), until the total profit (objective cell F7) reaches the maximum possible amount. The values in the variable cells are used to calculate the profit for each quarter, so they are related to the formula objective cell F7, =SUM (Q1 Profit:Q2 Profit).

1. Variable cells

2. Constrained cell

3. Objective cell

After Solver runs, the new values are as follows.

On the Data tab, in the Analysis group, click Solver.

Note: If the Solver command or the Analysis group is not available, you need to activate the Solver add-in. See: How to activate the Solver add-in.
In the Set Objective box, enter a cell reference or name for the objective cell. The objective cell must contain a formula.
Do one of the following:
- If you want the value of the objective cell to be as large as possible, click Max.
- If you want the value of the objective cell to be as small as possible, click Min.
- If you want the objective cell to be a certain value, click Value of, and then type the value in the box.
- In the By Changing Variable Cells box, enter a name or reference for each decision variable cell range. Separate the non-adjacent references with commas. The variable cells must be related directly or indirectly to the objective cell. You can specify up to 200 variable cells.
In the Subject to the Constraints box, enter any constraints that you want to apply by doing the following:
1. In the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Add.
2. In the Cell Reference box, enter the cell reference or name of the cell range for which you want to constrain the value.
3. Click the relationship ( <=, =, >=, int, bin, or dif ) that you want between the referenced cell and the constraint.If you click int, integer appears in the Constraint box. If you click bin, binary appears in the Constraint box. If you click dif, alldifferent appears in the Constraint box.
4. If you choose <=, =, or >= for the relationship in the Constraint box, type a number, a cell reference or name, or a formula.
5. Do one of the following:
  - To accept the constraint and add another, click Add.
  - To accept the constraint and return to the Solver Parameters dialog box, click OK.
    Note You can apply the int, bin, and dif relationships only in constraints on decision variable cells.
    
    You can change or delete an existing constraint by doing the following:
6. In the Solver Parameters dialog box, click the constraint that you want to change or delete.
7. Click Change and then make your changes, or click Delete.
Click Solve and do one of the following:
- To keep the solution values on the worksheet, in the Solver Results dialog box, click Keep Solver Solution.
- To restore the original values before you clicked Solve, click Restore Original Values.
- You can interrupt the solution process by pressing Esc. Excel recalculates the worksheet with the last values that are found for the decision variable cells.
- To create a report that is based on your solution after Solver finds a solution, you can click a report type in the Reports box and then click OK. The report is created on a new worksheet in your workbook. If Solver doesn’t find a solution, only certain reports or no reports are available.
- To save your decision variable cell values as a scenario that you can display later, click Save Scenario in the Solver Results dialog box, and then type a name for the scenario in the Scenario Name box.

After you define a problem, click Options in the Solver Parameters dialog box.
In the Options dialog box, select the Show Iteration Results check box to see the values of each trial solution, and then click OK.
In the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Solve.
In the Show Trial Solution dialog box, do one of the following:
- To stop the solution process and display the Solver Results dialog box, click Stop.
- To continue the solution process and display the next trial solution, click Continue.

In the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Options.
Choose or enter values for any of the options on the All Methods, GRG Nonlinear, and Evolutionary tabs in the dialog box.

In the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Load/Save.
Enter a cell range for the model area, and click either Save or Load.

When you save a model, enter the reference for the first cell of a vertical range of empty cells in which you want to place the problem model. When you load a model, enter the reference for the entire range of cells that contains the problem model.

Tip: You can save the last selections in the Solver Parameters dialog box with a worksheet by saving the workbook. Each worksheet in a workbook may have its own Solver selections, and all of them are saved. You can also define more than one problem for a worksheet by clicking Load/Save to save problems individually.

You can choose any of the following three algorithms or solving methods in the Solver Parameters dialog box:

Generalized Reduced Gradient (GRG) Nonlinear Use for problems that are smooth nonlinear.
LP Simplex Use for problems that are linear.
Evolutionary Use for problems that are non-smooth.

Important: You should enable the Solver add-in first. For more information, see Load the Solver add-in.

In the following example, the level of advertising in each quarter affects the number of units sold, indirectly determining the amount of sales revenue, the associated expenses, and the profit. Solver can change the quarterly budgets for advertising (decision variable cells B5:C5), up to a total budget constraint of $20,000 (cell D5), until the total profit (objective cell D7) reaches the maximum possible amount. The values in the variable cells are used to calculate the profit for each quarter, so they are related to the formula objective cell D7, =SUM(Q1 Profit:Q2 Profit).

Variable cells

Constrained cell

Objective cell

After Solver runs, the new values are as follows.

In Excel 2016 for Mac: Click Data > Solver.

In Excel for Mac 2011: Click the Data tab, under Analysis, click Solver.
In Set Objective, enter a cell reference or name for the objective cell.

Note: The objective cell must contain a formula.

Do one of the following:

To	Do this
Make the value of the objective cell as large as possible	Click Max.
Make the value of the objective cell as small as possible	Click Min.
Set the objective cell to a certain value	Click Value Of, and then type the value in the box.

In the By Changing Variable Cells box, enter a name or reference for each decision variable cell range. Separate the nonadjacent references with commas.

The variable cells must be related directly or indirectly to the objective cell. You can specify up to 200 variable cells.

In the Subject to the Constraints box, add any constraints that you want to apply.

To add a constraint, follow these steps:

In the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Add.
In the Cell Reference box, enter the cell reference or name of the cell range for which you want to constrain the value.
On the <= relationship pop-up menu, select the relationship that you want between the referenced cell and the constraint.If you choose <=, =, or >=, in the Constraint box, type a number, a cell reference or name, or a formula.

Note: You can only apply the int, bin, and dif relationships in constraints on decision variable cells.
Do one of the following:

To	Do this
Accept the constraint and add another	Click Add.
Accept the constraint and return to the Solver Parameters dialog box	Click OK.

Click Solve, and then do one of the following:

To	Do this
Keep the solution values on the sheet	Click Keep Solver Solution in the Solver Results dialog box.
Restore the original data	Click Restore Original Values.

Notes:

To interrupt the solution process, press ESC . Excel recalculates the sheet with the last values that are found for the adjustable cells.
To create a report that is based on your solution after Solver finds a solution, you can click a report type in the Reports box and then click OK. The report is created on a new sheet in your workbook. If Solver doesn’t find a solution, the option to create a report is unavailable.
To save your adjusting cell values as a scenario that you can display later, click Save Scenario in the Solver Results dialog box, and then type a name for the scenario in the Scenario Name box.

In Excel 2016 for Mac: Click Data > Solver.

In Excel for Mac 2011: Click the Data tab, under Analysis, click Solver.
After you define a problem, in the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Options.
Select the Show Iteration Results check box to see the values of each trial solution, and then click OK.
In the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Solve.

In the Show Trial Solution dialog box, do one of the following:

To	Do this
Stop the solution process and display the Solver Results dialog box	Click Stop.
Continue the solution process and display the next trial solution	Click Continue.

In Excel 2016 for Mac: Click Data > Solver.

In Excel for Mac 2011: Click the Data tab, under Analysis, click Solver.

Click Options, and then in the Options or Solver Options dialog box, choose one or more of the following options:

To	Do this
Set solution time and iterations	On the All Methods tab, under Solving Limits, in the Max Time (Seconds) box, type the number of seconds that you want to allow for the solution time. Then, in the Iterations box, type the maximum number of iterations that you want to allow. Note: If the solution process reaches the maximum time or number of iterations before Solver finds a solution, Solver displays the Show Trial Solution dialog box.
Set the degree of precision	On the All Methods tab, in the Constraint Precision box, type the degree of precision that you want. The smaller the number, the higher the precision.
Set the degree of convergence	On the GRG Nonlinear or Evolutionary tab, in the Convergence box, type the amount of relative change that you want to allow in the last five iterations before Solver stops with a solution. The smaller the number, the less relative change is allowed.

Do this

Set solution time and iterations

On the All Methods tab, under Solving Limits, in the Max Time (Seconds) box, type the number of seconds that you want to allow for the solution time. Then, in the Iterations box, type the maximum number of iterations that you want to allow.

Note: If the solution process reaches the maximum time or number of iterations before Solver finds a solution, Solver displays the Show Trial Solution dialog box.

Set the degree of precision

On the All Methods tab, in the Constraint Precision box, type the degree of precision that you want. The smaller the number, the higher the precision.

Set the degree of convergence

On the GRG Nonlinear or Evolutionary tab, in the Convergence box, type the amount of relative change that you want to allow in the last five iterations before Solver stops with a solution. The smaller the number, the less relative change is allowed.

Click OK.
In the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Solve or Close.

In Excel 2016 for Mac: Click Data > Solver.

In Excel for Mac 2011: Click the Data tab, under Analysis, click Solver.
Click Load/Save, enter a cell range for the model area, and then click either Save or Load.

When you save a model, enter the reference for the first cell of a vertical range of empty cells in which you want to place the problem model. When you load a model, enter the reference for the entire range of cells that contains the problem model.

Tip: You can save the last selections in the Solver Parameters dialog box with a sheet by saving the workbook. Each sheet in a workbook may have its own Solver selections, and all of them are saved. You can also define more than one problem for a sheet by clicking Load/Save to save problems individually.

In Excel 2016 for Mac: Click Data > Solver.

In Excel for Mac 2011: Click the Data tab, under Analysis, click Solver.
On the Select a Solving Method pop-up menu, select one of the following:

Solving Method	Description
GRG (Generalized Reduced Gradient) Nonlinear	The default choice, for models using most Excel functions other than IF, CHOOSE, LOOKUP and other “step” functions.
Simplex LP	Use this method for linear programming problems. Your model should use SUM, SUMPRODUCT, + — and * in formulas that depend on the variable cells.
Evolutionary	This method, based on genetic algorithms, is best when your model uses IF, CHOOSE, or LOOKUP with arguments that depend on the variable cells.

Because add-in programs aren’t supported in Excel for the web, you won’t be able to use the Solver add-in to run what-if analysis on your data to help you find optimal solutions.

If you have the Excel desktop application, you can use the Open in Excel button to open your workbook to use the Solver add-in.

More help on using Solver

For more detailed help on Solver contact:

Frontline Systems, Inc.
P.O. Box 4288
Incline Village, NV 89450-4288
(775) 831-0300
Web site: http://www.solver.com
E-mail: info@solver.com
Solver Help at www.solver.com.

Need more help?

You can always ask an expert in the Excel Tech Community or get support in the Answers community.

What is Solver in Excel?

The solver in excel is an analysis tool that helps find solutions to complex business problems requiring crucial decisions to be made. For every problem, the goal (objective), variables, and constraints are identified. The solver returns an optimal solution which sets accurate values of the variables, satisfies all constraints, and meets the goal.

For example, the solver helps create the most appropriate project schedule, minimize an organization’s expenses on transportation of its employees, maximize the profits generated by a given marketing plan, and so on.

The solver can solve the following types of problems:

Optimization problems where profits need to be maximized and costs need to be minimized
Arithmetic equations
Linear and nonlinear problems

In optimization problems, the solver in excel helps to minimize or maximize the objective based on certain variables. Being known as a “what-if analysisWhat-If Analysis in Excel is a tool for creating various models, scenarios, and data tables. It enables one to examine how a change in values influences the outcomes in the sheet. The three components of What-If analysis are Scenario Manager, Goal Seek in Excel, and Data Table in Excel.read more” tool, the solver is enabled by the “add-insAn add-in is an extension that adds more features and options to the existing Microsoft Excel.read more” option or the Developer tab of Excel.

What is Solver in Excel?
- The Functioning of the Excel Solver
- How to add “Solver Add-In” in Excel?
- The Terminologies of the Solver in Excel
- The Types of Solving Methods
- How to use the Solver in Excel?
  - Example #1
  - Example #2
- The Applications of the Solver Excel Model
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Recommended Articles

The Functioning of the Excel Solver

For solving a problem, the user has to input certain parameters based on which the solver operates. The tasks of the user followed by the functions of the solver are listed as under:

Identify the goal (objective) of the problem–This tells the solver what has to be done, thereby lending a direction to the solver.
Choose the variables of the problem–This tells the solver the areas it has to work upon. The solver in excel returns the most appropriate values of the variables that meet the goal.
Set the constraints of the problem–This tells the solver to work within the limits defined by the constraints. The solver returns a solution that meets the goal and, at the same time, does not go beyond these limitations.

Hence, the entire solution is focused on the goal of the problem. The solver returns the best possible solution for a problem keeping in mind the set of controls.

How to add “Solver Add-In” in Excel?

The “solver add-in” is not enabled by default in Excel. The two ways to activate the “add-in” are stated as follows:

a. With the “add-ins” option of the File menu

b. With the Developer tabEnabling the developer tab in excel can help the user perform various functions for VBA, Macros and Add-ins like importing and exporting XML, designing forms, etc. This tab is disabled by default on excel; thus, the user needs to enable it first from the options menu.read more

You can download this Solver Excel Template here – Solver Excel Template

a. The steps under “add-ins” option of the File menu are listed as follows:

Click on the File menu.
Select “options” from the various options listed in the menu.
Click on “add-ins.” Select “solver add-in” and click “go.”
Select the checkbox for “solver add-in” and click “Ok.”

b. The steps under the Developer tab option are listed as follows:

In the Developer tab, click on “Excel add-ins” in the “add-ins” group. Select the checkbox “solver add-in” and click “Ok.”

Once installed, the “solver” button appears in the “analysis” group of the Data tab.

The Terminologies of the Solver in Excel

The solver model consists of the objective cells, variable cells, constraints, and formulas that interconnect these components. The excel solver finds an optimal solution to the formula mentioned in the objective cell by changing the variable data cells, given the restrictions of the constraint cells.

Let us understand the terminologies used in the “solver parameters” dialog box. This will be helpful when running the solver. The terms are defined as follows:

Objective cell: This is a single cell which contains a formula. The formula is decision-based and subject to the restrictions of the constraint cells. The value of the objective cell can be minimized, maximized, or set equal to the specified target value.

Decision variable or variable cells: These are the cells in which the solver returns the values based on the objective of the problem. Since these data cells are variable, they can be changed with respect to the objective. In Excel, up to 200 variable cells can be specified.
Constraint cells: These are the limitations within which the given problem is solved. In other words, they are the conditions that should be satisfied.

The Types of Solving Methods

The three methods to solve the data in the excel solver are listed as follows:

GRG nonlinear

The acronym “GRG” stands for “generalized reduced gradient nonlinear.” This method helps solve nonlinear problems. A nonlinear problem may have more than one feasible region. Alternatively, it may have a set of similar values for the variable cells with all the constraints being satisfied.

2. Simplex LP

The acronym “LP” stands for linear problems. This method helps solve linear programming problems and works faster than the GRG nonlinear method. In a linear programming problem, a single objective has to be maximized or minimized subject to certain conditions.

The simplex LP and GRG nonlinear method both are used for smooth problems.

3. Evolutionary

This method helps solve non-smooth problems, which consist of discontinuous functions. The non-smooth problems are the most challenging optimization models to solve.

How to use the Solver in Excel?

Let us consider some examples to understand the solver tool of Excel.

You can download this Solver Excel Template here – Solver Excel Template

Example #1

We want to find the value of X and Y in the following arithmetic equation with the help of the solver tool.

56=2X-5+Y²

Step 1: Formulate the equation on an Excel sheet, as shown in the following image.

Step 2: Click the “solver” button in the “analysis” group of the Data tab. The “solver parameters” dialog box opens. Enter cell “$D$9” in the objective cell, as shown in the succeeding image. The variable cells are “$C$7:$D$7.”

In the “value of” box, type 56. This is because the right-hand side value of the given equation should be equal to 56.

Step 3: Select GRG nonlinear in the “select a solving method” box. Click “solve.”

Note: The GRG nonlinear is the default solving method.

Step 4: The “solver results” box appears. This box may take some time to display depending on the complexity of the model. Select “keep solver solution” and click “Ok,” as shown in the following image.

step13

Step 5: The results are shown in the following image. The solver has calculated X as 30.5 and Y as 0. The right-hand and left-hand sides both are equal now.

step14

Example #2

The succeeding image provides the details of an organization that manufactures a television set, stereo, and speaker. The raw materials used are chassis, picture tube, speaker cone, power supply, and electronics. The leftover stock of raw materials is given in G10:G14.

We want to maximize the overall profits given the limited availability of the raw materials.

The variable cells, constraint cells, and the objective cell are highlighted.

step15

Step 1: Calculate the “used inventory” in F10:F14. The formula is shown in the following image.

step16

Step 2: Click the “solver” button in the “analysis” group of the Data tab. In the “solver parameters” dialog box, click “add” to the right of the “subject to the constraints” box.

Step 3: The “add constraint” box appears, as shown in the succeeding image. The constraints are defined as follows:

The leftover stock of raw materials should be greater than or equal to zero. So, enter “$G$10:$G$14” in the “cell referenceCell reference in excel is referring the other cells to a cell to use its values or properties. For instance, if we have data in cell A2 and want to use that in cell A1, use =A2 in cell A1, and this will copy the A2 value in A1.read more” box. In the box to the right, type the comparison operator “>=.” In the “constraint” box, enter “0.”
The quantity of the three products (television set, stereo, and speaker) should be greater than or equal to zero. So, enter “$C$6:$E$6>=0” as done for the preceding point.

After entering every constraint, click the “add” button to add it to the “solver parameters” box. Once all constraints have been entered, click “Ok.”

step17

Step 4: In the “solver parameters” box, enter “$C$18” in the “set objective” box. Select the “max” option. In the “by changing variable cells” box, enter “$C$6:$E$6.” Select the solving method as GRG nonlinear. Click “solve.”

step18

Step 5: The output is shown in the following image. The organization must produce 250 television sets, 50 stereos, and 50 speakers to make a profit of $28,000. The product-wise profits are also displayed in C17:E17.

This is an optimal solution given the constraints. With these numbers, the organization will be able to utilize its resources efficiently.

step19

The Applications of the Solver Excel Model

The major applications of the excel solver are listed as follows:

It helps take decisions at the top level of management. For instance, an organization may want to maximize the profits and minimize the costs given the limited resources of inventory and manpower.
It helps solve the day-to-day problems of life which can be converted into arithmetic equations. For instance, a housewife may require an optimal monthly budget to be created which can meet the family’s financial needs, given the limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Define the solver in Excel.

The solver can solve optimization problems, arithmetic equations, and linear and nonlinear programming models. It helps minimize or maximize the output based on the associated variables and the given constraints.

The solver tool consists of three components which are stated as follows:

• Objective cell – This contains a formula which is to be solved.
• Variable cells – These cells contain variable data which can be adjusted to attain the objective.
• Constraint cells – These are the conditions to be met by the solution of the problem.

The solver solves the problems with the help of three methods GRG nonlinear, simplex LP, and evolutionary. The first two methods are used for smooth problems, while the last helps solve non-smooth problems.

2. What is the purpose of using the solver in Excel?

The objectives of using the solver are listed as follows:

• To find an optimal solution to a problem
• To help minimize or maximize the formula value
• To work on variable data provided the constraints are adhered to
• To perform a comprehensive analysis necessary for making decisions

3. What are the solver parameters in Excel?

The “solver parameters” is a dialog box which appears on clicking the “solver” button in the Data tab. It consists of the following components:

• “Set objective” – This is the objective cell categorized into “max,” “min,” and “value of.” The “max” and “min” help maximize or minimize the formula value respectively. The “value of” category helps set the desired target value.
• “By changing variable cells” – This consists of a range of variable data cells that are changed to achieve the goal.
• “Subject to the constraints” – These are the constraints that can be added, modified, and deleted depending on the requirement.
• “Load/save” button – This saves the current model and displays the stored parameters.
• “Select a solving method” – This consists of the method to solve the problem. Any one of the three methods (GRG nonlinear, simplex LP, and evolutionary) can be selected.
• “Solve” button – This is clicked once all the data has been entered in the tool. It takes the user to the “solver results” dialog box.

Note: If the variable cells are non-adjacent, select the range by pressing and holding the “Ctrl” key.

What is Solver in Excel with example?

Excel Solver allows specifying up to 200 variable cells. In this example, we have a couple of cells whose values can be changed: Projected clients per month (B4) that should be less than or equal to 50; and. Cost per service (B5) that we want Excel Solver to calculate.

Where is the Solver in Excel?

The Excel Solver function is located on the Data Ribbon and the keyboard shortcut on Windows is Alt, A, Y21. Once the dialog box appears you will notice several options you can work with. Set the “Objective” cell.

What is a Solver explain?

A solver is a piece of mathematical software, possibly in the form of a stand-alone computer program or as a software library, that ‘solves’ a mathematical problem. A solver takes problem descriptions in some sort of generic form and calculates their solution.

How good is Excel Solver?

The advantages of the Excel Solver
In fact, Excel Solver brings a number of advantages to the table: Excel Solver enables you to specify multiple adjustable cells. You can use up to 200 adjustable cells in all. Excel Solver enables you to set up constraints on the adjustable cells.

How do you use Solver?

Step through Solver trial solutions

In Excel 2016 for Mac: Click Data > Solver.
After you define a problem, in the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Options.
Select the Show Iteration Results check box to see the values of each trial solution, and then click OK.
In the Solver Parameters dialog box, click Solve.

What is Solver in open office?

A Solver component modifies a set of input cells in a spreadsheet, observing the impact on result and constraint formula cells. The goal is to find an optimal set of input values, for which the result is minimized, maximized or approximated to a target value, while the constraints remain within specified limits.

Where is Solver Excel 2019?

Excel adds the Solver tool button in the “Analyze” section of the “Data” menu tab.

Where is Solver Excel 2007?

For Excel 2007
Click Add-Ins, and then in the Manage box, select Excel Add-ins. Click Go. In the Add-Ins available box, select the Solver Add-in check box, and then click OK. After you load the Solver Add-in, the Solver command is available in the Analysis group on the Data tab.

Where is solver in Mac Excel?

Solver and Data Analysis Add-ins for Excel for Mac 2019

Open Excel for Mac 2019.
Go to the Tools menu, select “Add-ins”
Check “Solver Add-in” and “Analysis ToolPak” then click OK.
Select the “Data” tab, then select “Solver” or “Data Analysis”.

What is a solver in machine learning?

A solver is a routine for finding exact numerical answers for determined systems. For example, when using Newton-Raphson to find root(s). When a system is overdetermined then one generally uses approximate solutions, for example, regression.

What is a linear solver?

This application solves your linear systems.: integral method type equations in one block, matrix method enter the coefficient matrix and the column of constants, individual method type coefficients one by one.

Why does Solver take so long?

If you use a large, arbitrary bound (upper or lower), a solver can take excessive time, or even fail to converge. However, if you set Inf or -Inf as the bound, the solver can take less time, and might converge better.Minor point: Some solvers use memory for each constraint, primarily via a constraint Hessian.

What is the difference between Solver and Goal Seek feature?

Goal Seek determines what value needs to be in an input cell to achieve a desired result in a formula cell. Solver determines what values need to be in multiple input cells to achieve a desired result.

What is Simplex LP Excel?

… The Simplex LP Solving Method for linear programming uses the Simplex and dual Simplex method with bounds on the variables, and problems with integer constraints use the branch and bound method, as implemented by John Watson and Daniel Fylstra, Frontline Systems, Inc.

How do I use binary Solver in Excel?

A binary constraint is one in which the variable must equal either 0 or 1. To specify a binary constraint, use the Cell Reference box to identify the variable cell that must be binary and then select the bin operator from the unnamed drop-down list box. Tell Excel you’re done adding constraints.

What is excel in open office?

OpenOffice Excel online for XLS spreadsheets is an extension that allows to create, edit and view any Microsoft Excel spreadsheet in both xls and xlsx formats. It is a spreadsheet processor integrated with our file manager to manage only XLS file types with this desktop app.

What is solver in Libre Calc?

The multivariable solver integrated into LibreOffice is activated by the Menu Tools ▸ Solver. The solver engine by default supports only linear equations, but the NLPSolver extension allows you to handle non-linear problems. You will find a full explanation of its functioning on [1].

How do you write Solver?

We choose the Add button again (either from the Add Constraint dialog above, or from the main Solver Parameters dialog) to define the non-negativity constraint on the decision variables. (Alternatively, we can check the Make Unconstrainted Variables Non-Negative option in the Solver Parameters dialog.)

How do I turn off Solver in Excel?

If you press ESC while Solver is solving, the Show Trial Solution dialog box appears. Do one of the following: Click Stop to stop the solution process. TheSolver Results dialog appears with a message that Solver stopped at your request.

Where is Solver Excel 2011?

Hit ‘Select’ button and navigate to /Applications/Office 11/Office/Add ins/Solver/Solver.

Источник

Solver – это надстройка Microsoft Excel, которую можно использовать для оптимизации в анализе «что, если».

По мнению О’Брайена и Маракаса, оптимизационный анализ является более сложным расширением целенаправленного анализа. Вместо того, чтобы устанавливать конкретное целевое значение для переменной, цель состоит в том, чтобы найти оптимальное значение для одной или нескольких целевых переменных при определенных ограничениях. Затем одна или несколько других переменных меняются неоднократно, с учетом указанных ограничений, пока вы не найдете лучшие значения для целевых переменных.

В Excel вы можете использовать Solver, чтобы найти оптимальное значение (максимальное или минимальное или определенное значение) для формулы в одной ячейке, называемой целевой ячейкой, при условии соблюдения определенных ограничений или ограничений для значений других ячеек формулы на рабочем листе. ,

Это означает, что Солвер работает с группой ячеек, называемых переменными решения, которые используются при вычислении формул в ячейках цели и ограничения. Солвер корректирует значения в ячейках переменных решения, чтобы удовлетворить ограничения на ячейки ограничений и получить желаемый результат для целевой ячейки.

Вы можете использовать Solver, чтобы найти оптимальные решения для различных проблем, таких как –

Определение ежемесячного ассортимента продукции для подразделения по производству лекарств, которое максимизирует прибыльность.
Планирование рабочей силы в организации.
Решение транспортных проблем.
Финансовое планирование и бюджетирование.

Определение ежемесячного ассортимента продукции для подразделения по производству лекарств, которое максимизирует прибыльность.

Планирование рабочей силы в организации.

Решение транспортных проблем.

Финансовое планирование и бюджетирование.

Активация Solver надстройки

Прежде чем приступить к поиску решения проблемы с Solver, убедитесь, что надстройка Solver активирована в Excel следующим образом:

Нажмите вкладку ДАННЫЕ на ленте. Команда Solver должна появиться в группе «Анализ», как показано ниже.

Если вы не можете найти команду Солвера, активируйте ее следующим образом:

Нажмите вкладку ФАЙЛ.
Нажмите Опции на левой панели. Откроется диалоговое окно «Параметры Excel».
Нажмите Надстройки на левой панели.
Выберите Надстройки Excel в поле «Управление» и нажмите «Перейти».

Откроется диалоговое окно «Надстройки». Проверьте Надстройку Solver и нажмите Ok. Теперь вы можете найти команду Solver на ленте под вкладкой DATA.

Методы решения, используемые Solver

Вы можете выбрать один из следующих трех методов решения, которые поддерживает Excel Solver, в зависимости от типа проблемы:

LP Simplex

Используется для линейных задач. Модель Солвера является линейной при следующих условиях:

Целевая ячейка вычисляется путем сложения членов формы (изменяющаяся ячейка) * (постоянная).
Каждое ограничение удовлетворяет требованию линейной модели. Это означает, что каждое ограничение оценивается путем сложения членов формы (изменяющейся ячейки) * (константы) и сравнения сумм с константой.

Целевая ячейка вычисляется путем сложения членов формы (изменяющаяся ячейка) * (постоянная).

Каждое ограничение удовлетворяет требованию линейной модели. Это означает, что каждое ограничение оценивается путем сложения членов формы (изменяющейся ячейки) * (константы) и сравнения сумм с константой.

Обобщенный редуцированный градиент (GRG) нелинейный

Используется для гладких нелинейных задач. Если ваша целевая ячейка, любое из ваших ограничений или оба содержат ссылки на изменяющиеся ячейки, которые не имеют (изменяющейся ячейки) * (постоянной) формы, у вас есть нелинейная модель.

эволюционный

Понимание оценки Солвера

Для Солвера требуются следующие параметры –

Ячейки с переменными решениями
Клетки ограничения
Объективные Клетки
Метод решения

Оценка решателя основана на следующем:

Значения в ячейках переменных решения ограничены значениями в ячейках ограничений.
Вычисление значения в целевой ячейке включает значения в ячейках переменных решения.
Солвер использует выбранный метод решения, чтобы получить оптимальное значение в целевой ячейке.

Значения в ячейках переменных решения ограничены значениями в ячейках ограничений.

Вычисление значения в целевой ячейке включает значения в ячейках переменных решения.

Солвер использует выбранный метод решения, чтобы получить оптимальное значение в целевой ячейке.

Определение проблемы

Предположим, вы анализируете прибыль, полученную компанией, которая производит и продает определенный продукт. Вас просят найти сумму, которая может быть потрачена на рекламу в следующие два квартала, но не более 20 000. Уровень рекламы в каждом квартале влияет на следующее –

Количество проданных единиц, косвенно определяющих сумму выручки от продаж.
Сопутствующие расходы и
Прибыль

Вы можете приступить к определению проблемы как –

Найти стоимость единицы.
Найти стоимость рекламы на единицу.
Найти цену за единицу.

Затем установите ячейки для необходимых расчетов, как указано ниже.

Как вы можете заметить, расчеты сделаны для квартала 1 и квартала 2, которые рассматриваются:

Количество единиц, доступных для продажи в квартале 1, составляет 400, а в квартале 2 – 600 (ячейки – C7 и D7).
Начальные значения для рекламного бюджета установлены как 10000 за квартал (ячейки – C8 и D8).
Количество проданных единиц зависит от стоимости рекламы на единицу и, следовательно, является бюджетом на квартал / Adv. Стоимость за единицу. Обратите внимание, что мы использовали функцию Min, чтобы убедиться, что нет. единиц, проданных в <= нет. из доступных единиц. (Клетки – C9 и D9).
Выручка рассчитывается как цена за единицу * Количество проданных единиц (ячейки – C10 и D10).
Расходы рассчитываются как стоимость единицы * Количество доступных единиц + Adv. Стоимость за этот квартал (Клетки – C11 и D12).
Прибыль – это доход – расходы (ячейки C12 и D12).
Общая прибыль – это прибыль за квартал 1 + прибыль за квартал 2 (ячейка – D3).

Количество единиц, доступных для продажи в квартале 1, составляет 400, а в квартале 2 – 600 (ячейки – C7 и D7).

Начальные значения для рекламного бюджета установлены как 10000 за квартал (ячейки – C8 и D8).

Количество проданных единиц зависит от стоимости рекламы на единицу и, следовательно, является бюджетом на квартал / Adv. Стоимость за единицу. Обратите внимание, что мы использовали функцию Min, чтобы убедиться, что нет. единиц, проданных в <= нет. из доступных единиц. (Клетки – C9 и D9).

Выручка рассчитывается как цена за единицу * Количество проданных единиц (ячейки – C10 и D10).

Расходы рассчитываются как стоимость единицы * Количество доступных единиц + Adv. Стоимость за этот квартал (Клетки – C11 и D12).

Прибыль – это доход – расходы (ячейки C12 и D12).

Общая прибыль – это прибыль за квартал 1 + прибыль за квартал 2 (ячейка – D3).

Далее вы можете установить параметры для Солвера, как указано ниже –

Как вы можете заметить, параметры Солвера –

Объективная ячейка – D3, в которой содержится общая прибыль, которую вы хотите максимизировать.
Ячейки с переменными решениями – это C8 и D8, которые содержат бюджеты на два квартала – квартал 1 и квартал 2.
Есть три ячейки ограничения – C14, C15 и C16.
- Ячейка C14, которая содержит общий бюджет, должна установить ограничение 20000 (ячейка D14).
- Ячейка C15, которая содержит номер единиц, проданных в первом квартале, – установить ограничение <= нет. единиц, доступных в Quarter1 (ячейка D15).
- Ячейка C16, которая содержит номер единиц, проданных в Quarter2, это установить ограничение <= нет. единиц, доступных в квартале 2 (ячейка D16).

Объективная ячейка – D3, в которой содержится общая прибыль, которую вы хотите максимизировать.

Ячейки с переменными решениями – это C8 и D8, которые содержат бюджеты на два квартала – квартал 1 и квартал 2.

Есть три ячейки ограничения – C14, C15 и C16.

Ячейка C14, которая содержит общий бюджет, должна установить ограничение 20000 (ячейка D14).

Ячейка C15, которая содержит номер единиц, проданных в первом квартале, – установить ограничение <= нет. единиц, доступных в Quarter1 (ячейка D15).

Ячейка C16, которая содержит номер единиц, проданных в Quarter2, это установить ограничение <= нет. единиц, доступных в квартале 2 (ячейка D16).

Решение проблемы

Следующим шагом является использование Солвера, чтобы найти решение следующим образом:

Шаг 1 – Перейдите в ДАННЫЕ> Анализ> Решатель на ленте. Откроется диалоговое окно «Параметры решателя».

Шаг 2 – В поле «Установить цель» выберите ячейку D3.

Шаг 3 – Выберите Макс.

Шаг 4 – Выберите диапазон C8: D8 в поле « Изменение переменных ячеек» .

Шаг 5 – Затем нажмите кнопку Добавить, чтобы добавить три ограничения, которые вы определили.

Шаг 6 – Откроется диалоговое окно Add Constraint. Установите ограничение для общего бюджета, как указано ниже, и нажмите «Добавить».

Шаг 7 – Установите ограничение для общего номера. единиц, проданных в квартале 1, как указано ниже, и нажмите кнопку Добавить.

Шаг 8 – Установите ограничение для общего номера. единиц, проданных в квартале 2, как указано ниже, и нажмите кнопку ОК.

Появится диалоговое окно «Параметры решателя» с тремя ограничениями, добавленными в поле «Подчинить ограничениям».

Шаг 9 – В поле « Выбрать метод решения» выберите Simplex LP.

Шаг 10 – Нажмите кнопку Решить. Откроется диалоговое окно «Результаты решателя». Выберите Keep Solver Solution и нажмите ОК.

Результаты появятся в вашем рабочем листе.

Как вы можете заметить, оптимальное решение, которое дает максимальную общую прибыль с учетом данных ограничений, оказывается следующим:

Общая прибыль – 30000.
Adv. Бюджет на 1 квартал – 8000.
Adv. Бюджет на Квартал2 – 12000.

Пошаговое решение Solver Trial Solutions

Вы можете просмотреть пробные решения Solver, посмотрев результаты итерации.

Шаг 1 – Нажмите кнопку «Параметры» в диалоговом окне «Параметры решателя».

Откроется диалоговое окно « Параметры ».

Шаг 2 – Установите флажок «Показать результаты итерации» и нажмите «ОК».

Шаг 3 – Откроется диалоговое окно « Параметры решателя». Нажмите Решить .

Шаг 4 – Появится диалоговое окно « Показать пробное решение », в котором будет отображено сообщение « Солвер остановлен», а текущие значения решения будут отображены на листе .

Как вы можете видеть, текущие значения итерации отображаются в ваших рабочих ячейках. Вы можете либо остановить Солвер, принимая текущие результаты, либо продолжить, пока Солвер не найдет решение на следующих шагах.

Шаг 5 – Нажмите Продолжить.

Диалоговое окно « Показать пробное решение » появляется на каждом этапе, и, наконец, после нахождения оптимального решения открывается диалоговое окно «Результаты решения». Ваш рабочий лист обновляется на каждом шаге, и, наконец, отображаются значения результатов.

Сохранение выбора Солвера

У вас есть следующие варианты сохранения для задач, которые вы решаете с помощью Солвера –

Вы можете сохранить последние выбранные значения в диалоговом окне «Параметры решателя» вместе с рабочим листом, сохранив рабочую книгу.

Каждый лист в книге может иметь свои собственные варианты Солвера, и все они будут сохранены при сохранении книги.

Вы также можете определить более одной проблемы на рабочем листе, каждый из которых имеет свой собственный выбор Солвера. В таком случае вы можете загружать и сохранять проблемы по отдельности с помощью диалогового окна «Параметры решателя» «Загрузить / сохранить».

Нажмите кнопку Загрузить / Сохранить . Откроется диалоговое окно загрузки / сохранения.

Чтобы сохранить модель проблемы, введите ссылку для первой ячейки вертикального диапазона пустых ячеек, в который вы хотите поместить модель проблемы. Нажмите Сохранить.

Модель проблемы (набор параметров решателя) появляется начиная с ячейки, которую вы указали в качестве справочной.

Чтобы загрузить модель проблемы, введите ссылку для всего диапазона ячеек, которые содержат модель проблемы. Затем нажмите на кнопку «Загрузить».

Источник

Содержание

Solver
Load the Solver Add-in
Formulate the Model
Trial and Error
Solve the Model
Как установить и использовать Солвер в Excel
Что такое Солвер для Excel?
Как включить Солвер в Excel
Использование Солвера в Microsoft Excel
Запуск Солвера в Excel
Выбор параметров решателя
Запуск Solver Query
Работа с данными Excel
Solver in Excel
What is Solver in Excel?
The Functioning of the Excel Solver
How to add “Solver Add-In” in Excel?
The Terminologies of the Solver in Excel
The Types of Solving Methods
How to use the Solver in Excel?
Example #1
Example #2
The Applications of the Solver Excel Model
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Articles

Solver

Excel includes a tool called solver that uses techniques from the operations research to find optimal solutions for all kind of decision problems.

Load the Solver Add-in

To load the solver add-in, execute the following steps.

1. On the File tab, click Options.

2. Under Add-ins, select Solver Add-in and click on the Go button.

3. Check Solver Add-in and click OK.

4. You can find the Solver on the Data tab, in the Analyze group.

Formulate the Model

The model we are going to solve looks as follows in Excel.

1. To formulate this linear programming model, answer the following three questions.

a. What are the decisions to be made? For this problem, we need Excel to find out how much to order of each product (bicycles, mopeds and child seats).

b. What are the constraints on these decisions? The constrains here are that the amount of capital and storage used by the products cannot exceed the limited amount of capital and storage (resources) available. For example, each bicycle uses 300 units of capital and 0.5 unit of storage.

c. What is the overall measure of performance for these decisions? The overall measure of performance is the total profit of the three products, so the objective is to maximize this quantity.

2. To make the model easier to understand, create the following named ranges.

Range Name	Cells
UnitProfit	C4:E4
OrderSize	C12:E12
ResourcesUsed	G7:G8
ResourcesAvailable	I7:I8
TotalProfit	I12

3. Insert the following three SUMPRODUCT functions.

Explanation: The amount of capital used equals the sumproduct of the range C7:E7 and OrderSize. The amount of storage used equals the sumproduct of the range C8:E8 and OrderSize. Total Profit equals the sumproduct of UnitProfit and OrderSize.

Trial and Error

With this formulation, it becomes easy to analyze any trial solution.

For example, if we order 20 bicycles, 40 mopeds and 100 child seats, the total amount of resources used does not exceed the amount of resources available. This solution has a total profit of 19000.

It is not necessary to use trial and error. We shall describe next how the Excel Solver can be used to quickly find the optimal solution.

Solve the Model

To find the optimal solution, execute the following steps.

1. On the Data tab, in the Analyze group, click Solver.

Enter the solver parameters (read on). The result should be consistent with the picture below.

You have the choice of typing the range names or clicking on the cells in the spreadsheet.

2. Enter TotalProfit for the Objective.

4. Enter OrderSize for the Changing Variable Cells.

5. Click Add to enter the following constraint.

6. Check ‘Make Unconstrained Variables Non-Negative’ and select ‘Simplex LP’.

7. Finally, click Solve.

The optimal solution:

Conclusion: it is optimal to order 94 bicycles and 54 mopeds. This solution gives the maximum profit of 25600. This solution uses all the resources available. Try it yourself. Download the Excel file, enter the solver parameters (previous 7 steps) and find the optimal solution.

Источник

Как установить и использовать Солвер в Excel

Плагин Excel Solver позволяет найти минимальные и максимальные значения для потенциального расчета. Вот как это установить и использовать.

Программы для Windows, мобильные приложения, игры — ВСЁ БЕСПЛАТНО, в нашем закрытом телеграмм канале — Подписывайтесь:)

Существует не так много математических проблем, которые не могут быть решены с помощью Microsoft Excel. Его можно использовать, например, для решения сложных аналитических расчетов «что если» с использованием таких инструментов, как поиск цели, но при этом доступны более эффективные инструменты.

Если вы хотите найти минимальные и максимальные числа, возможные для решения математической задачи, вам необходимо установить и использовать надстройку Solver. Вот как установить и использовать Солвер в Microsoft Excel.

Что такое Солвер для Excel?

Solver — сторонняя надстройка, но Microsoft включает ее в Excel (хотя по умолчанию она отключена). Он предлагает анализ «что если», чтобы помочь вам определить переменные, необходимые для решения математической задачи.

Например, какое минимальное количество продаж вам нужно совершить, чтобы покрыть стоимость дорогостоящего бизнес-оборудования?

Эта проблема состоит из трех частей: целевого значения, переменных, которые оно может изменить, чтобы достичь этого значения, и ограничений, с которыми должен работать Solver. Эти три элемента используются надстройкой Solver для расчета продаж, которые вы бы хотели выполнить. необходимо покрыть стоимость этого оборудования.

Это делает Solver более продвинутым инструментом, чем собственная функция поиска цели в Excel.

Как включить Солвер в Excel

Как мы уже упоминали, Solver включен в Excel как сторонняя надстройка, но сначала вам нужно включить его, чтобы использовать.

Для этого откройте Excel и нажмите Файл> Параметры открыть меню параметров Excel.

в Параметры Excel окно, нажмите Надстройки вкладка для просмотра настроек для надстроек Excel.

в Надстройки На вкладке вы увидите список доступных надстроек Excel.

Выбрать Надстройки Excel от управлять раскрывающееся меню внизу окна, затем нажмите Идти кнопка.

в Надстройки установите флажок рядом с Надстройка Солвера вариант, затем нажмите Хорошо подтвердить.

Как только вы нажмете Хорошо, надстройка Solver будет включена, и вы сможете начать ее использовать.

Использование Солвера в Microsoft Excel

Надстройка Solver будет доступна для использования, как только она будет включена. Для начала вам понадобится электронная таблица Excel с соответствующими данными, чтобы вы могли использовать Солвер. Чтобы показать вам, как использовать Солвер, мы будем использовать пример математической задачи.

Исходя из нашего предыдущего предложения, существует электронная таблица, показывающая стоимость дорогостоящего оборудования. Чтобы заплатить за это оборудование, бизнес должен продать определенное количество продуктов, чтобы заплатить за оборудование.

Для этого запроса несколько переменных могут измениться для достижения цели. Вы можете использовать Solver для определения стоимости продукта для оплаты оборудования на основе заданного количества продуктов.

В качестве альтернативы, если вы установили цену, вы могли бы определить количество продаж, которое вам нужно было бы достичь безубыточности — это проблема, которую мы попытаемся решить с помощью Солвера.

Запуск Солвера в Excel

Чтобы использовать Solver для решения этого типа запроса, нажмите Данные вкладка на панели ленты Excel.

в анализировать раздел нажмите решающее устройство вариант.

Это загрузит Параметры решателя окно. Отсюда вы можете настроить запрос Солвера.

Выбор параметров решателя

Во-первых, вам нужно выбрать Установить цель клетка. Для этого сценария мы хотим, чтобы доход в ячейке B6 соответствовал стоимости оборудования в ячейке B1, чтобы достичь безубыточности. Исходя из этого, мы можем определить количество продаж, которое нам нужно сделать.

к цифра позволяет найти минимум (Min) или максимум (Максимум) возможное значение для достижения цели, или вы можете установить ручную цифру в Значение коробка.

Лучшим вариантом для нашего тестового запроса будет Min вариант. Это потому, что мы хотим найти минимальное количество продаж, чтобы достичь нашей цели безубыточности. Если вы хотите добиться большего, чем это (например, чтобы получить прибыль), вы можете установить целевой показатель дохода в Значение коробка вместо.

Цена остается неизменной, поэтому количество продаж в ячейке B5 является переменная ячейка, Это значение, которое необходимо увеличить.

Вам нужно будет выбрать это в Изменяя переменные ячейки коробка выбора.

Вы должны будете установить ограничения дальше. Это тесты, которые Solver будет использовать для определения окончательного значения. Если у вас сложные критерии, вы можете установить несколько ограничений для работы Солвера.

Для этого запроса мы ищем номер дохода, который больше или равен первоначальной стоимости оборудования. Чтобы добавить ограничение, нажмите Добавить кнопка.

Использовать Добавить ограничение окно для определения ваших критериев. В этом примере ячейка B6 (показатель целевого дохода) должна быть больше или равна стоимости оборудования в ячейке B1.

После того, как вы выбрали критерии ограничения, нажмите Хорошо или Добавить кнопок.

Прежде чем вы сможете выполнить свой запрос Solver, вам необходимо подтвердить метод решения, который будет использовать Solver.

По умолчанию это установлено на GRG нелинейный вариант, но есть другие доступные методы решения, Когда вы будете готовы выполнить запрос Солвера, нажмите Решать кнопка.

Запуск Solver Query

Как только вы нажмете РешатьExcel попытается выполнить ваш запрос Солвера. Появится окно результатов, показывающее, был ли запрос успешным.

В нашем примере Solver обнаружил, что минимальное количество продаж, необходимое для соответствия стоимости оборудования (и, следовательно, безубыточности), составило 4800.

Вы можете выбрать Keep Solver Solution вариант, если вы довольны изменениями, внесенными Солвером, или Восстановить исходные значения если нет

Чтобы вернуться в окно «Параметры решателя» и внести изменения в свой запрос, нажмите Вернуться к диалогу параметров решателя флажок.

щелчок Хорошо чтобы закрыть окно результатов, чтобы закончить.

Работа с данными Excel

Надстройка Excel Solver берет сложную идею и делает ее возможной для миллионов пользователей Excel. Однако это нишевая функция, и вы можете использовать Excel для более простых расчетов.

Вы можете использовать Excel для расчета процентных изменений или, если вы работаете с большим количеством данных, вы можете делать перекрестные ссылки на ячейки в нескольких листах Excel. Вы даже можете вставить данные Excel в PowerPoint, если вы ищете другие способы использования ваших данных.

Источник

Solver in Excel

What is Solver in Excel?

The solver in excel is an analysis tool that helps find solutions to complex business problems requiring crucial decisions to be made. For every problem, the goal (objective), variables, and constraints are identified. The solver returns an optimal solution which sets accurate values of the variables, satisfies all constraints, and meets the goal.

The solver can solve the following types of problems:

Optimization problems where profits need to be maximized and costs need to be minimized
Arithmetic equations
Linear and nonlinear problems

The Functioning of the Excel Solver

For solving a problem, the user has to input certain parameters based on which the solver operates. The tasks of the user followed by the functions of the solver are listed as under:

Identify the goal (objective) of the problem–This tells the solver what has to be done, thereby lending a direction to the solver.
Choose the variables of the problem–This tells the solver the areas it has to work upon. The solver in excel returns the most appropriate values of the variables that meet the goal.
Set the constraints of the problem–This tells the solver to work within the limits defined by the constraints. The solver returns a solution that meets the goal and, at the same time, does not go beyond these limitations.

Hence, the entire solution is focused on the goal of the problem. The solver returns the best possible solution for a problem keeping in mind the set of controls.

How to add “Solver Add-In” in Excel?

The “solver add-in” is not enabled by default in Excel. The two ways to activate the “add-in” are stated as follows:

a. With the “add-ins” option of the File menu

a. The steps under “add-ins” option of the File menu are listed as follows:

Click on the File menu.

Select “options” from the various options listed in the menu.

Click on “add-ins.” Select “solver add-in” and click “go.”

Select the checkbox for “solver add-in” and click “Ok.”

b. The steps under the Developer tab option are listed as follows:

In the Developer tab, click on “Excel add-ins” in the “add-ins” group. Select the checkbox “solver add-in” and click “Ok.”

Once installed, the “solver” button appears in the “analysis” group of the Data tab.

The Terminologies of the Solver in Excel

Let us understand the terminologies used in the “solver parameters” dialog box. This will be helpful when running the solver. The terms are defined as follows:

Objective cell: This is a single cell which contains a formula. The formula is decision-based and subject to the restrictions of the constraint cells. The value of the objective cell can be minimized, maximized, or set equal to the specified target value.

Decision variable or variable cells: These are the cells in which the solver returns the values based on the objective of the problem. Since these data cells are variable, they can be changed with respect to the objective. In Excel, up to 200 variable cells can be specified.
Constraint cells: These are the limitations within which the given problem is solved. In other words, they are the conditions that should be satisfied.

The Types of Solving Methods

The three methods to solve the data in the excel solver are listed as follows:

GRG nonlinear

2. Simplex LP

The simplex LP and GRG nonlinear method both are used for smooth problems.

3. Evolutionary

This method helps solve non-smooth problems, which consist of discontinuous functions. The non-smooth problems are the most challenging optimization models to solve.

How to use the Solver in Excel?

Let us consider some examples to understand the solver tool of Excel.

Example #1

We want to find the value of X and Y in the following arithmetic equation with the help of the solver tool.

Step 1: Formulate the equation on an Excel sheet, as shown in the following image.

In the “value of” box, type 56. This is because the right-hand side value of the given equation should be equal to 56.

Step 3: Select GRG nonlinear in the “select a solving method” box. Click “solve.”

Note: The GRG nonlinear is the default solving method.

Step 5: The results are shown in the following image. The solver has calculated X as 30.5 and Y as 0. The right-hand and left-hand sides both are equal now.

Example #2

We want to maximize the overall profits given the limited availability of the raw materials.

The variable cells, constraint cells, and the objective cell are highlighted.

Step 1: Calculate the “used inventory” in F10:F14. The formula is shown in the following image.

Step 3: The “add constraint” box appears, as shown in the succeeding image. The constraints are defined as follows:

The leftover stock of raw materials should be greater than or equal to zero. So, enter “$G$10:$G$14” in the “ cell referenceCell ReferenceCell reference in excel is referring the other cells to a cell to use its values or properties. For instance, if we have data in cell A2 and want to use that in cell A1, use =A2 in cell A1, and this will copy the A2 value in A1.read more ” box. In the box to the right, type the comparison operator “>=.” In the “constraint” box, enter “0.”
The quantity of the three products (television set, stereo, and speaker) should be greater than or equal to zero. So, enter “$C$6:$E$6>=0” as done for the preceding point.

After entering every constraint, click the “add” button to add it to the “solver parameters” box. Once all constraints have been entered, click “Ok.”

This is an optimal solution given the constraints. With these numbers, the organization will be able to utilize its resources efficiently.

The Applications of the Solver Excel Model

The major applications of the excel solver are listed as follows:

It helps take decisions at the top level of management. For instance, an organization may want to maximize the profits and minimize the costs given the limited resources of inventory and manpower.
It helps solve the day-to-day problems of life which can be converted into arithmetic equations. For instance, a housewife may require an optimal monthly budget to be created which can meet the family’s financial needs, given the limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

The solver tool consists of three components which are stated as follows:

The objectives of using the solver are listed as follows:

The “solver parameters” is a dialog box which appears on clicking the “solver” button in the Data tab. It consists of the following components:

Note: If the variable cells are non-adjacent, select the range by pressing and holding the “Ctrl” key.

Solver in Excel

Solver tool in excel is quite a useful tool for those in the analysis domain, which is used for operations research to find the optimum solution for any decision problem. The solver tool can be activated in excel from Excel Options under the tab Add-Ins. We will be able to see this in the Data tab under the analysis section as Solver. In Solver, we just need to add the cell formula or problem, then select the cells that are affecting it.

Where to find SOLVER in Excel?

Excel SOLVER tool is located under Data Tab > Analysis Pack > Solver.

If you are not able to see the SOLVER tool in your excel, follow the below steps to enable this option in your excel.

Step 1: Firstly, go to File and Options at the left-hand side of the excel.

Step 2: Select the Add-Ins after Options.

Step 3: At the bottom, you will see Excel Add-ins, select that, and click on Go…

Step 4: Select Solver Add-in and click OK.

Step 5: This will enable the SOLVER Add-in Option for you.

How to use Solver in Excel?

A solver tool is very simple to use. Let us now see how to use the Solver tool in Excel with the help of some examples.

You can download this Solver tool Excel Template here – Solver tool Excel Template

Example #1

As I have explained at the start, we will do the X + Y = 50 calculation to start our SOLVER journey in Excel.

Goal: X + Y = 50

Conditions:

X should be a positive integer value
X should be >= 30
Y should be a positive integer value
Y should be >= 25

Step 1: Write a simple equation in an excel sheet.

I have mention X & Y as variables. As dummy data, I have mentioned 1 for both X & Y variables. The SUM function adds those two cell values and gives the sum.

Step 2: Go to Data tab > Solver.

Step 3: Once you click on Solver, it will open the below dialogue box. Here we need to set our objective, give many criteria’s and solve the problem.

Step 4: In the Set Objective, give a link to the cell that we want to change. In this example, the cell we want to change is cell B3.

Step 5: In the To: section, select Value of and type 50 as the value. In this case, X + Y should be equal to 50.

Step 6: Now, in By Changing Variable Cells: select the cells you want to change the values to get the sum of 50. In this example, we need to change the variables X & Y, and these cell values are in B1:B2.

Step 7: Now comes the criteria part. Remember our criteria initially we stated. Click on ADD option in the Solver dialogue box.

Step 8: Once you click on the ADD item, it will open the below dialogue box. In this box, we need to mention our first criteria.

Our first criterion is X should be greater than equal to 30.

Once you set the criteria, click on Add. It will add the criterion to the solver box, the current values will be stored, and the same box will once again show up with no values.

Step 9: In the same box, give the second criteria. The second criterion is X should be an integer value. Click on Add button.

Step 10: Similarly, give criteria to the second variable, Y. For this variable, criteria are it should be greater than equal to 25 and should be an integer. Click on Add button.

Step 11: Give the second criteria for variable Y.

Step 12: Click on the OK button.

You will see all the variables in the SOLVER box.

Step 13: Now click on the SOLVE button, which is located at the bottom of the box.

Step 14: Once the SOLVE button has clicked, excel will solve the problem based on the criterion you have given. (Excel will take some 15 seconds to run it).

Step 15: Click on OK. This dialogue box will be removed.

Therefore, the X value is 30, and the Y value is 25 to get the total of 55.

In this way, we use SOLVER to solve our problems.

Example #2

I will demonstrate one more example to understand better.

I have Units produced, basic units per price, the total cost involved, and the profit value.

By selling 1500 units at a basic rate of 15 per unit, I will earn 2150 as profit. However, I want to earn a minimum profit of 7500 by increasing the unit price.

Problem: How much should I increase the unit price to earn the profit of 7500?

Step 1: Open the Excel SOLVER tool.

Step 2: Set the objective cell as B8 and the value of 7500 and by changing the cell to B3.

Step 3: I do not have such criteria to be satisfied to increase the unit price. So, I am not giving any kind of criteria. Click on the SOLVE button.

Step 4: In order to earn a profit of 7500, I must sell at 19 per unit instead of 15 per unit.

Things to Remember

SOLVER is the tool to solve your problem.
It works similar to the Goal Seek tool in excel.
You can give 6 kinds of criteria. >=, <=, =, integer, binary, difference
First, you need to identify the problem and the criteria associated with it.

What is the Solver add-in?

The Solver add-in is an Excel optimization tool.

You can use the Excel solver to perform a what-if analysis with multiple variables in your model.

It will find an optimal solution for a formula by changing the related variables.

We can add constraints on how much one variable can vary when we change the others.

The solver is useful for Linear programming problems in business, programming, and engineering.

Because of this, Solver is also known as a “Linear Programming Solver.”

However, you can solve both non-smooth or continuous functions as well as smooth non-linear issues with the Excel Solver.

How to add the Solver add-in

The Solver add-in, like the Analysis ToolPak of Excel, is a Microsoft Excel add-in program.

As a result, it is not immediately available in Excel by default.

We must install it 🤔

Let’s look at how to add the Solver add-in to our Excel workbook.

Go to the file tab in your Excel file.

Select options at the bottom of the left-hand sidebar.

Select Add-ins from the Excel options window.

Then in the Manage box, select excel add-ins and click “Go…”.

Select the Solver Add-in check box from the Add-ins available box. Then, click OK.

Select the Solver Add-in check box from the Add-ins available box.

Now the Excel Solver Add-ins are loaded to Microsoft excel 👌

Now, go to the Data tab.

To check view the Excel Solver button - Go to the data tab in the Excel file.

You can see the Excel solver command in the analysis group of the Data tab.

Excel Solver button in the analysis group of the Data tab.

You can click Solver to open the Solver parameters dialog box.

How to use Solver in Excel

It is important to learn different parts of the Solver parameter dialog box before we use it 🧑🏻‍🎓

Set Objective

The set objective is the first input for the Excel Solver parameter dialog box.

In the set objective box, we have to select the cell reference for the objective cell.

The objective cell must have a formula.

Kasper Langmann, Microsoft Office Specialist

Then you can set the objective cell to one of the following.

Max
Min
Value of – If you select “Value of”, you must specify the target value in the box.

Solver parameters dialog box - Set objectives

By changing variable cells

In this “by changing variable cells”, you have to select all the variable cells to get the optimal solution.

The variable cells are directly or indirectly related to the target cell.

Currently, you can include up to 200 variable cells for the Excel solver function.

If the variable cells are non-adjacent cells, you have to separate them with commas.

Solver parameters window - By changing variable cells

Subject to the constraints

Excel Solver can find the optimal solution within constraints or limits.

We can add constraints in this constraint box.

Solver parameters window - Subject to constraints

To add constraints, click add button.

Then “Add constraint” box will pop up.

You can select the variable cell for the cell reference box and add the limit in the constraint box.

You must specify the relationship between the cell reference box and the constraint box also.

Do you want to delete or change an existing constraint? 👇🏻

Select that constraint from the Excel Solver parameters dialog box.

Then click the change button to change the existing constraint.

Or click the delete button to delete that.

Kasper Langmann, Microsoft Office Specialist

Select a solving method

In Excel solver, we can select one of the solving methods from the following 3.

GRG non-linear – For solver problems that are smooth nonlinear.
Simplex LP – For linear programming problems.
Evolutionary – For solver problems that are non-smooth.

Excel Solver parameters - Solving methods

Now you are familiar with the Excel solver add-in options window 💪🏻

Let’s use Excel Solver to find a solution for a linear programming model.

Linear programming with Solver add-in

In the below example, we have to find how many units we have to sell in order to get the desired outcome of profit.

Let’s learn step by step how to use the Excel Solver solution to our linear programming problem.

Go to the data tab and click solver to open the Excel Solver.
Select the objective cell reference.

Our goal is to set the total profit in cell B7 to $900.

So, B7 is the objective cell.

As we need to match the value of the objective cell to $900, we have to select the option of “Value of”.

Then type 900, next to the “value of” option.

Excel Solver - Setting objective cell reference to value of $900

Select the variable cells.

The variable for the target value is the quantity for each cell.

So, in this case, the variable cells are B2, C2, and D2.

Excel Solver - Selecting variable cells.

Click the “Add” tab to add constraints for each variable.

Choose each product’s quantity cell as a cell reference.

Then choose the referenced cell’s maximum amount as the constraint.

Next, choose the link between the referred cell.

Here we select “less than or equal sign” because the constraint is maximum quantity.

Again, we need the quantities as whole numbers.

So, we set another constraint for each variable cell as an Integer.

Excel Solver - Adding maximum amounts as constraints

Excel Solver - Set the quantity as an integer.

After entering all constraints, the solver displays all constraints for the particular solution.

Solver displays all constraints for possible solutions

Select the “Simplex LP” as we are solving a linear solver problem and click the “Solve” button at the bottom of the window.

Excel Solver - Selecting the solving method

Then, you can see the Solver results dialog box with options to “keep solver solution” and to “restore original values”.

Select the “keep solver solution” and click “OK”.

To get a total profit of $900, we have to sell 149 in vanilla flavour, 114 in chocolate flavour, and 75 in banana flavour.

That’s it – Now what?

Now you have learned Excel Solver a hidden gem of an Excel 💎

You can use this to solve many problems in financial models.

But, before you use Excel Solver for your model, you must make sure all your functions such as IF, SUMIF, and VLOOKUP are correctly applied in the model.

Otherwise, the Solver will take hours to get the solution and may give incorrect results.

Click here to access my free 30-minute online course where you can learn about IF, SUMIF, and VLOOKUP if you haven’t already.

Frequently asked questions

When you need to change only one input to get the desired outcome of a formula, you can easily use Excel’s inbuilt feature Goal Seek.

We have to specify the formula cell, the target value for the formula cell, and the cell to change in order to get the target value.

Only 200 decision variables are currently supported by Excel solver.

This restriction applies to both linear and nonlinear models.

Another problem is that we cannot ensure that we will obtain the solver model’s optimal solution if it is not linear.

Kasper Langmann2023-01-10T18:48:32+00:00

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Источник

Awhile back, I wrote a tutorial about a useful feature in Microsoft Excel called Goal Seek. It allows you to solve simple “what-if” scenarios. However, it has limitations. Fortunately, Microsoft has a more powerful data analysis tool. You can even add a constraint to your equation. In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to use Solver in Excel. (Includes practice file.)

What is Excel Solver?

The Excel Solver add-in designed to do more complex “what-if” calculations using different solving methods. The main advantage is Solver allows you to work with variables and constraints to find an optimal solution.

If you recall my Excel Goal Seek tutorial, my total vote count number increased. That was the problem. With this enhanced solving method, I can ask Excel Solver to tell me how the YES/NO vote count needed to change to win an election while not altering the total vote count.

To solve this problem, you need to define certain cell types. I’ve added background colors and callouts to my example. I find adding the color helps me later when I enter variables and values into the Solver Parameters dialog box.

Excel Tip: Color code the items you’ll use for Solver

[A] Objective Cell – This is a single cell on the active sheet representing my goal. Currently, the value is 63.90%. I want to change this value to the required winning percentage.

[B] Variable Cell – This can be one or more cells that Solver will change to achieve the desired objective. It can be a range of cells or nonadjacent cells. The Solver will run through its calculations by adjusting the YES/NO counts until it finds the optimal solution. You’re allowed up to 200 variable cells. The current values are from the election results.

In my example, I have 2 adjacent values. However, you might have a problem where your variables are not next to each other. In this case, you can hold down your CTRL key and click or separate the cells by a comma.

[C] Constraint Cell – This is an optional but important cell. As the name suggests, it limits the solution to certain criteria. Your spreadsheet can have more than one constraint. In our case, the TOTAL vote count has to stay the same. No stuffing the ballot box with additional YES votes. Other constraint types might include integers or minimum values.

The Solver Parameters Dialog Box

I can take these cell references and use them in the Solver Parameters dialog as shown below. Let’s use my election results as an Excel Solver example.

Mapping cell values to Solver parameters

The first field is the Set Objective. Once you click in the field, click your desired Excel cell, and it will be carried over as an absolute reference with the $ anchors. In earlier versions of Solver, Excel called this field the target cell. Our value is $T$26.

Underneath, you’ll see a To: line with three radio buttons. In my scenario, I want to test for a Value Of 66.7%. However, I can’t type a % sign in this field, so I’ll use the decimal value.

Now that we’ve told Excel our objective is to get 66.7% of the YES votes, I need to define my variables and which cells can be changed. Again, I clicked in the By Changing Variable Cells: field and then highlighted cells C21:C22.

The last item I defined was my constraint. This is done by clicking the Add button on the lower right side. If you look under the Subject to the Constraints: section, you’ll see I’m telling Excel to keep the total vote count at 7008.

I also kept the default Solving Method of GRG Nonlinear. However, there are more complex methods using linear programming solutions.

How to Install Excel Solver

I’m not sure why, but Solver in Excel isn’t installed by default. It’s an add on.

Open Microsoft Excel.
From the File menu, select Options.
In the Excel Options dialog box, click Add-ins from the left menu.
Look down to the bottom right side for a field called Manage:
Select Excel Add-ins from the drop-down list.
Click the Go… button.
From the Add-ins dialog box, check the box for Solver Add-in.
Click OK.

If you go to your Data tab, you should now see Solver in the Analyze section.

How to Use Excel Solver

The steps below were done using Microsoft 365 (Previously called Office 365) and the sample spreadsheet. The spreadsheet has two versions of the election results, so you can use Solver on one and view the original results. Once you learn the tool, you can skip adding a second version.

Download and open the practice file.
You may need to click the Enable Editing button on the Protected View banner.
Click cell G3. There is no magic to this cell reference except that it opens Solver closer to my data.
Click the Data tab.
From the Analyze group, click Solver.

Solver Now Shows on Data Tab

The Solver Parameters dialog box appears. You can reposition it on your screen.

Click in the Set Objective box and then click cell D4.
Toggle the Value Of: radio button.
Replace the “0” value with 0.667.
Click in the By Changing Variable Cells: field.
Highlight cells C4:C5. Excel will convert these to an absolute reference.

Move down to the Constraints area and click the Add button on the right. The Add Constraint dialog opens.
Click in the Cell Reference field.
Click cell C6. Excel will automatically populate the field.
Move to the next field and select = from the drop-down menu.
In the Constraint: field type 7008 since we want to match the total votes count.

Click the OK button since we only have one constraint.
Click the Solve button. Excel will attempt to find the optimal solution.
The Solver Results dialog opens, and your spreadsheet values in C4:C5 should’ve changed. Also, the Total % has increased to our target value of 66.70%.

Solution Found and All Conditions and Constraints Applied

Click OK to accept the new solution.

If you do the math, you can see this ballot measure could’ve had a different outcome if 196 people had voted “yes” instead of “no”. Or, if more people voted.

Leveling Up to the Next Level

The analysis add-in can do some sophisticated optimization analysis using the other radio button options like Max and Min. In fact, Microsoft has a tutorial on using Solver to determine the optimal product mix. It’s much more detailed than this article and includes using SUMPRODUCT function and a linear solving method.

As you learn how to use Solver, you’ll discover more options than this simple example. For example, the Excel Solver function allows you also to load and save optimization scenarios. It also has a report section that provides additional details.

Excel Practice File

Beginner’s Guide to XLOOKUP
How to Use Excel VLOOKUP
How to Use Excel Auto Filter
How to Use Flash Fill in Excel
How to Use Conditional Formating in Excel

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More help on using Solver

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What is Solver in Excel?

Table of contents

The Functioning of the Excel Solver

How to add “Solver Add-In” in Excel?

The Terminologies of the Solver in Excel

The Types of Solving Methods

How to use the Solver in Excel?

Example #1

Example #2

The Applications of the Solver Excel Model

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Simplex LP Excel?

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Активация Solver надстройки

Методы решения, используемые Solver

LP Simplex

Обобщенный редуцированный градиент (GRG) нелинейный

эволюционный

Понимание оценки Солвера

Определение проблемы

Решение проблемы

Пошаговое решение Solver Trial Solutions

Сохранение выбора Солвера

Solver

Load the Solver Add-in

Formulate the Model

Trial and Error

Solve the Model

Как установить и использовать Солвер в Excel

Что такое Солвер для Excel?

Как включить Солвер в Excel

Использование Солвера в Microsoft Excel

Запуск Солвера в Excel

Выбор параметров решателя

Запуск Solver Query

Работа с данными Excel

Solver in Excel

What is Solver in Excel?

Table of contents

The Functioning of the Excel Solver

How to add “Solver Add-In” in Excel?

The Terminologies of the Solver in Excel

The Types of Solving Methods

How to use the Solver in Excel?

Example #1

Example #2

The Applications of the Solver Excel Model

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Articles

Solver in Excel

Where to find SOLVER in Excel?

How to use Solver in Excel?

Example #1

Example #2

Things to Remember

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