# Formula[¶](https://doc.dataiku.com/dss/latest/preparation/processors/formula.html#formula "Permalink to this headline")

This processor computes new columns using formulas based on other columns (like in a spreadsheet). The formula language provides:

* Math functions

* String manipulation functions

* Date handling functions

* Boolean and conditional expressions for rules creation

## Usage examples[¶](https://doc.dataiku.com/dss/latest/preparation/processors/formula.html#usage-examples "Permalink to this headline")

* Compute a numerical expression: `(col1 + col2) / 2 \* log(col3)`

* Manipulate strings : `toLowercase(substring(strip(mytext), 0, 7))`

* Create a rule-based column: `if (width > height, "wide", "tall")`

## Getting help[¶](https://doc.dataiku.com/dss/latest/preparation/processors/formula.html#getting-help "Permalink to this headline")

The formula editor provides live syntax checking, preview of results, a complete language reference, and examples.
