The Objective Function

The quantity you want to maximize or minimize is called the objective function or Set Cell. This cell is listed in the Set Cell edit box of the Solver Parameters dialog.

You may have a Solver model which has nothing to maximize or minimize, in which case the Set Cell edit box will be blank. In this situation the Solver will simply find a solution which satisfies the constraints.

The Solver also permits you to enter a specific value which you want the objective function or Set Cell to achieve. This feature was included for compatibility with the Range Analyze Backsolver... option, which allows you to seek a specific value for a cell by adjusting the values of other cells on which it depends. In fact, entering a specific value for the Solver's Set Cell is exactly the same as leaving the Set Cell blank and entering an equality constraint for the Set Cell in the Constraint List Box.

There is rarely a good reason to use the Set Cell Value of edit box in the Solver Parameters dialog. If you have a simple "goalseeking" or "backsolving" problem, you will find it convenient to use the Range Analyze Backsolver... option. If you have nothing to maximize or minimize, we recommend that you leave the Set Cell blank and enter any constraints you need in the Constraint List Box.