Excel Newton’s Method: Iterative Equation Solving

How To Use Newton’s Method

We are going to use Newton Method to solve the equation x^2=5

First you need to label the column like this

Note: (x), a column for the function evaluations (f(x)), and a column for the slope (f’(x))

Enter value in (x). In column B write the formula =A2^2-5 and in column C write the formula 2*A2

In column A cell A3 enter formula

=A2-B2/C2

Select cell B2, move cursor to the bottom right, a black plus sign will appear. Drag the black plus sign to cell B7.

Repeat with cell C2.

Repeat with cell A1. That’s it, you have now learned how to use Newton Method in Excel.

Note: Once the value of x stops changing from row to row and f(x) is small (close to zero), you have the solution (assuming the process converged).

Note: Answer is shaded in yellow.

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Further reading: 
Basic concepts 
Getting started with Excel
Cell References