Adding sub-formulas
A sub-formula is also known as an intermediate or nested formula. It is a formula used as an ingredient in a higher-level formula (i.e., container formula).
Sub-formulas are added to formulas in two ways. The primary reason for direct nesting versus indirect nesting has to do with how companies treat intermediate formulas and the items in them.
This table shows the methods for adding intermediate formulas to a parent formula:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Directly Nested as a formula | There is no item that represents the
formula.
To substitute a different sub-formula, each parent must be opened individually and the change must be completed manually. |
| Indirectly Nested as an item associated with a master formula | There can be more than one formula that is
associated with an item. One formula is designated as the master formula.
When you add an item that has a master formula to a parent formula, the master formula is automatically brought into the parent. Then when a different intermediate formula needs to be used for that item, you are required to change the master formula designation for the item. The new formula is referenced in all parent formulas. You are not required to manually open and change each parent formula. |