Question

what would Excel predict as additional entries of the first two cells had the following data -1, -5
-6, -7, -8
-9, -13, -17
-4, -3, -2
-1, 3 ,7

Answer 1

To predict additional entries based on the provided data in Excel, you would typically use the "Fill Handle" for linear or exponential trends, or apply a formula depending on the nature of the data.

The data you've provided appears to indicate a progression of numbers. Let's analyze the data:

- **First Row**: -1, -5
- **Second Row**: -6, -7, -8
- **Third Row**: -9, -13, -17
- **Fourth Row**: -4, -3, -2
- **Fifth Row**: -1, 3, 7

Given the variety of data, it’s hard to define a clear trend. However, if we look closely at the sequences:

1. The first two entries in the dataset (-1 and -5) may indicate a possible linear progression or a specific mathematical pattern.

2. For prediction, focused on the pattern, we notice some entries appear to increase and others decrease.

If you want Excel to predict based on some pattern:

1. **Select the two initial numbers** (-1, -5).
2. Drag down or to the side along the areas you want to fill.
3. Excel can attempt to fill based on the selected cells.

### A Predictive Example:

- If we consider a linear trend, the difference between -1 and -5 is -4 (this could suggest Excel would predict -9 next).

But since this doesn’t appear to reflect your dataset entirely, you'll need to analyze each series separately.

**Specific Recommendations**:
- Use the "Trendline" feature under the "Chart" tool or utilize the `FORECAST` formula in Excel to generate predictions based on your numerical sequences over rows or columns as a range.

In such a multi-row data set, also consider breaking it down and analyzing sequences separately to determine specific trends for more reliable predictions.

Would you want to focus on a specific sequence from the provided data for predictions, or would you like to provide more context?