rank function

ok i can't figure out this step i need to do. heres what they are telling me to do:


Using the columns we created, we want to list each
the number of dogs registered (e.g., the breed with the most dogs registered
will be ranked as #1).
a. In cell D4, use the RANK() function to determine the ranking of the
Affenpinscher breed in 2003 registrations. Use AutoFill to copy your
formula to all other breeds for 2003 (cells D5 through D157).
b. Copy your formula for figuring 2003 rankings to calculate 2004 rankings
(column F) and 2005 rankings (column H).


i just cant get the rank function figured out on this

and heres a picture of the table set up

http://www.profuseimage.com/out.php/i8907_Untitled.jpg

any help would be appreciated. thanks.

Looks from your example that you want the function in C5 downwards.

With RANK function you use =RANK(number,ref) where number is the specific number you want to rank, in this case D5, and ref is a range of cells within which you want to rank that number, i.e. D5:D157 so in C5 you use

=RANK(D5,D$5:D$157)

Copy this formula down the column.

The $ signs prevent the range from altering as you copy the formula down

when i do that the cells only have "=RANK(D5,D$5:D$157)" in them, they dont do anything else.

Possibly column C is text formatted

Select column C and use Data > Text to columns > Finish

Does that make any difference?

that worked, thanks.