Scenario?

S

simmerdown

I have a list of numbers (approximately 3000) that sum to X. However, my
control figure is Y.

Is there a formula that will evaluate the list of 3000 numbers and return
those that when summed, equal the difference between X and Y?
 
B

Bernard Liengme

You could do this with Solver but with 3000 number, it is unlikely that
there is a unique solution.
Do you care?
 
S

simmerdown

No, I don't care. At least that would narrow down the field, then I could
take it from there.
 
B

Bernard Liengme

Assuming your numbers are in A1:A3000
In B1:B3000 enter 1
C1 =SUMPRODUCT(A1:A3000, B1:B3000), C2 = Y (your target), C3 = ABS(C1-C2)

In Solver
Changing cells B1:B3000
Constraints C3=0 and B1:B3000 bin (binary - i.e. 0 or 1)
Solve

Does it work with your data?
 
S

simmerdown

I really appreciate your help.

After inputting the information as described, once I hit "solver" I receive
a message that says "too many adjustable cells".

Any thoughts?
 
B

Bernard Liengme

Play with a smaller set of data and see if that works.
If so we can try to work out something
 
S

simmerdown

I narrowed the data down to about 25 figures. Again, I'm trying to
determine, of these figures, which of these when summed adds to X.

I used the solver listed below on the 25 figures, however I'm not sure I
understand the results.

Is there a possibility I could email you a sample file?
 
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