Formula
A database property that calculates and transforms values using functions. Create dynamic outputs like dates, text manipulation, logical checks, and math operations.
Definition
A Formula is a specialized database property in Notion that lets you compute and transform data using functions and operators. Formulas can handle mathematics, manipulate text, analyze dates, or evaluate Boolean logic to produce dynamic values based on other properties in the same database. By combining functions like if(), dateBetween(), join(), and arithmetic operators (+, -, *, /), you can automate calculations such as calculating deadlines, generating progress percentages, or formatting text based on conditions.
Usage & Context
To use a Formula, add or convert a database property to the Formula type in the property settings. Enter an expression using Notion’s supported functions and reference other property names enclosed in square brackets. Formulas appear as columns in table, board, list, and calendar views, allowing you to sort, filter, and group entries based on computed values, such as highlighting overdue tasks or grouping items by calculated priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Formula in Notion?
- A Formula is a database property that computes values using functions and operators to transform data based on other properties.
- How do I create a Formula?
- In your database, click + to add a new property, choose the Formula type, and then enter your expression in the formula editor.
- Can Formulas reference other properties?
- Yes. Simply type the property name enclosed in square brackets (e.g., [Due Date]) to use its value in your expression.
- What types of functions can I use?
- Notion supports arithmetic, text, date, and Boolean functions—such as sum, slice, dateBetween, format, and if—for versatile data manipulation.
- Why is my Formula returning an error?
- Errors often occur if a function name is misspelled, a property reference is incorrect, or data types don’t match (e.g., trying to do math on text).
Benefits
Formulas automate manual calculations, enforce consistency, and provide real-time insights without leaving your Notion workspace, saving time and reducing errors.
Related Terms
Custom Properties
User-defined database fields in Notion that let you capture and structure data with tailored property types.
Date Manipulation
Techniques for calculating, adjusting, and formatting date properties in Notion using formulas and built-in functions for dynamic scheduling and reminders.
Aggregation
Feature that calculates summary values—sums, averages, counts, and more—across database entries, giving quick insights at the bottom of any view.
Database Filter
Filters let you narrow down database entries based on property conditions. Use filters to display only the records you need in any view.
Database
A Database in Notion is a collection of structured pages with customizable properties and flexible views. Organize and track tasks, notes, projects, or any data dynamically.
Habit Tracker
A Habit Tracker in Notion is a customizable database template that helps you log, analyze, and visualize daily habits using properties like dates, checkboxes, and formulas.
Last Edited Time
A database property that logs when a page or record was last modified, helping you track updates and changes automatically.
Multi-select
A database property type that lets you tag records with multiple predefined options, enabling flexible categorization, filtering, and grouping.
Number
A database property type for entering and formatting numeric values. Supports decimals, percentages, currencies, and durations for consistent data tracking.
Conclusion
Formulas empower Notion users to add intelligence and automation to databases, transforming raw input data into actionable information and improving productivity across workflows.
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