WPS Spreadsheet includes a powerful tool called Goal Seek that helps users work backward from a desired result to determine the input value needed to achieve it.

When your calculations rely on interconnected variables and you need to isolate the precise input that yields a fixed result, Goal Seek becomes indispensable.

Imagine determining the interest rate needed for a $500 monthly loan payment—Goal Seek delivers the solution instantly, eliminating tedious guesswork.

You must first construct a formula in your spreadsheet that produces the target value you aim to achieve.

Ensure that the formula depends on at least one adjustable cell whose value you intend to alter.

Double-check that the formula cell returns a valid and up-to-date value based on the data currently entered.

After preparing your model, go to the Data tab in the ribbon, then find and click the What If Analysis option.

Click on it and choose Goal Seek from the dropdown menu.

A dialog box will appear with three fields to fill out.

In the Set Cell field, enter the address of the cell containing the formula whose output you are targeting.

Enter the desired outcome in the To Value field—the exact number you want the formula to produce.

Identify the input cell in the By Changing Cell field—the single variable WPS will modify to meet your target.

Ensure the target cell connects logically to the formula cell, either directly or via a chain of dependencies.

Once all fields are accurately filled, press the OK button to initiate the calculation.

WPS will automatically test various values in the changing cell, converging toward the point where the formula matches your target.

You’ll receive feedback indicating whether Goal Seek successfully met your target or encountered an obstacle.

When successful, the input cell is overwritten with the calculated value, and the formula reflects the new outcome.

If the goal cannot be reached due to constraints or logical impossibility, you will be notified accordingly.

It is important to note that Goal Seek works only with one variable at a time.

For problems requiring several variables to be optimized together, the Solver add-in offers a more advanced alternative.

Also, always review the results to ensure they make sense in context.

If the output is absurd—such as negative values or impossible durations—reassess your formula logic and boundary conditions.

Always create a duplicate version of your spreadsheet before running Goal Seek.

Be cautious—Goal Seek permanently replaces the content of the changing cell, risking loss of original data.

Formulas with loops or deeply nested dependencies can stall the algorithm or prevent convergence.

This feature is indispensable in domains like economics, engineering, and wps官网 data analysis where output-driven input determination is essential.

Its intuitive design streamlines complex problem-solving while minimizing manual calculation mistakes.

Dedicate time to testing Goal Seek on varied examples—this hands-on experience will empower you to tackle real-life challenges swiftly and accurately

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Pub: 13 Jan 2026 16:03 UTC

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