Row-level and summary report formulas
Key Takeaway
Use a row-level formula when the answer is about each record, and use a summary formula when the answer is about a group or a total.
Report formulas let you calculate new values inside a report. A row-level formula calculates one value for every record (row) in the report. A summary formula calculates on group subtotals and grand totals.
Row-level formula or summary formula?
The question decides the tool, so ask what the answer is about.
If the answer is about each record...
You should use a row-level formula, which adds a column that calculates on every report row. For example, a row-level formula can show how many days each opportunity took to close, whether a case subject mentions the word "widget", or which customers are satisfied based on a CSAT score.
If the answer is about a group or a total...
You should use a summary formula. For example, a summary formula can show the total amount after tax for each group.