How to Use Excel's TAN Function

Excel's TAN function calculates an angle's tangent in radians or degrees. "Tan" refers to the tangent, one of the primary trigonometric functions. An "x" refers to the value that goes into the function with the tan, and together we refer to them as "Tan x." To obtain the mathematical relationship of the tan angle to other trigonometric angles (sine and cosine) one can use Excel's TAN Function.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Enter your input values into a row or column in a blank spreadsheet. The "input value" refers to the angle, represented by the "x." Let's assume you enter an input value of 5 and you enter it in cell A1.
2. Click your cursor in a different cell and type the formula "=Tan(A1)." This gives you the result of -0.14255. This number represents the tangent of your angle.
3. Change the number of decimal points in your answer if necessary. Go to "Format" and "Cells." Select the "Number" tab, then "Number" and enter the number of decimal points you would like.
4. Compare your answers with the most popular tan values: "Tan(0 degrees) = 0.0000;" "Tan(30 degrees) = 0.5773;" "Tan(45 degrees) =1.000;" "Tan(60 degrees) = 1.7320;" "Tan(90 degrees) = infinity."

Tips & Warnings

• Excel's TAN Function calculates your trigonometry functions in radians. If you want your answer in degrees, you need to convert it by using this formula: "Angle in Radians" times "180" divided by "Pi" equals "Angle in Degrees."

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