How to Calculate a Rate Table

For businesses whose prices change depending on the circumstances of the purchase, a rate table can help customers quickly and easily understand the way their choices influence the prices they pay. Businesses use rate tables when prices vary by age, quantity, size, type or any other selected variable chosen. By following where the column and row that apply to them intersect, customers can arrive at exactly the right rate for their desired purchase.

Instructions

1

Open a spreadsheet program. Starting in cell B2 (the second cell from the left on the second row), list each of your rate criteria across the top of the page. Rate criteria may include percentages, quantities, sizes or any another criteria that serves to differentiate one choice from another. Base the criteria you choose on what has the most relevance to the circumstances you're trying to illustrate with the table, such as prices, percentages or measurements.

2

Starting in cell A3 (the third cell from the top in the first column), list a second set of criteria down the left side of the spreadsheet. Again, the list criteria most relevant to the circumstances described in the table. For example, you may list items for sale along the side of the spreadsheet and a variety of quantities along the top, or you may list purchase amounts along the side and a list of various tax or interest rates across the top.

3

Fill in the table with the rates that correspond to the criteria you've listed. At the intersection of each row and column, list the rate that's relevant for the intersecting items. For example, an interest rate table would indicate the correct amount of interest for various amounts at various rates of interest. A pricing rate table might illustrate the price per unit of various items for sale based on the quantity purchased. Complete your rate table by calculating the results of your criteria, or by listing the rates associated with each item.