The double negative, often referred to as the double unary or double minus operator, plays a crucial role in the conversion of Boolean values into numeric ones, specifically transforming TRUE to 1 and FALSE to 0.
To delve deeper into the concept, it's essential to understand that a unary operation involves only one operand, distinguishing it from binary operations that employ two operands. In the context of the double negative operator, its primary function lies in facilitating the conversion of Boolean data, which is fundamental in various programming and spreadsheet applications.
One notable area where the double negative operator proves particularly useful is in array operations. Arrays, being collections of data elements, frequently require transformations or computations. The double negative operator finds practical application when combined with functions like SUMPRODUCT, especially in spreadsheet environments like Excel.
The SUMPRODUCT function is known for its versatility in handling array operations without the need for explicit array formulas. This feature is particularly advantageous because it allows users to overcome the limitations associated with Excel's conditional functions, such as SUMIF and SUMIFS. By leveraging the double negative operator in conjunction with SUMPRODUCT, users can perform complex calculations involving arrays efficiently and without the constraints imposed by traditional conditional functions.
In essence, the double negative operator serves as a valuable tool in the toolkit of programmers and spreadsheet users, enabling seamless conversion of Boolean values and providing enhanced capabilities when working with arrays. Its synergy with functions like SUMPRODUCT opens up new possibilities for data manipulation and analysis, showcasing its significance in optimizing computational workflows.
Let's analyze how the double minus acts, step by step:
=SUMPRODUCT(--($B$3:$B$12=D4))
$B$3:$B$12 range refers to an array of values between B3 and B12 cells
{2018;2018;2018;2018;2018;2018;2018;2019;2019;2019}
$B$3:$B$12=D4 operation compares the values of the array with the value of the cell D4, "2019". This action returns another array which contains the Boolean values. TRUE for matched values and FALSE otherwise.
{FALSE;FALSE;FALSE;FALSE;FALSE;FALSE;FALSE;TRUE;TRUE;TRUE}
The double minus converts Boolean values to ones and zeroes. So --($B$3:$B$12=D4) operation returns an array of ones and zeroes. It mean that ones represents the match and zeroes others.
{0;0;0;0;0;0;0;1;1;1}
Finally; the SUMPRODUCT sums the contents of the final array to return the number of matched values.
3
Alternatively; you can use the N function to convert Boolean values into ones and zeroes. It simply returns a value converted to a number which means TRUE to 1 and FALSE to 0.
