Calculated from the sample figures using the displayed formula.
What is the investment growth calculator?
Ending value − Starting value − ContributionsInvestment growth separates the change attributed to the modeled portfolio from the capital added during the period.
What do the inputs mean?
- Starting value
- The value entered for starting value. Keep its period and units consistent with the other inputs.
- Additional contributions
- The value entered for additional contributions. Keep its period and units consistent with the other inputs.
- Ending value
- The value entered for ending value. Keep its period and units consistent with the other inputs.
How to calculate it step by step
- Define the decision.
Write down what the result will help you compare or decide. - Collect matching inputs.
Use figures from the same period and apply the definitions shown on this page. - Apply the formula.
Ending value − Starting value − Contributions. - Check the units.
Confirm whether the result is a currency amount, percentage, number of periods or ratio. - Test a second case.
Change one assumption at a time to see what drives the result.
Worked example
Using the sample figures in the calculator, the result is $4,500.00. Change one figure at a time and recalculate to see which assumption has the greatest effect. A spreadsheet should return the same result when it uses the same formula, units and timing.
When should you use investment growth calculator?
Use it as a simple reconciliation before calculating a time-weighted or money-weighted return.
Limitations and common mistakes
Withdrawals, fees, taxes and the timing of contributions require a more detailed return calculation.
Do not mix annual figures with monthly figures, ending balances with averages, or percentages with whole numbers. Record the definition used so another person can reproduce the result.
Frequently asked questions
What is investment growth calculator?
Investment growth separates the change attributed to the modeled portfolio from the capital added during the period.
How should I use investment growth calculator?
Use the formula only after matching every input to the same period, unit and definition. Then compare the result with a worked example and the decision you are trying to make.
What is the most common mistake with investment growth calculator?
Withdrawals, fees, taxes and the timing of contributions require a more detailed return calculation.
Can I calculate investment growth calculator in a spreadsheet?
Yes. Reproduce the displayed equation with separate cells for each input, keep percentages as decimals, and test the spreadsheet against the worked example before replacing the sample figures.
Sources and methodology
This page uses the Investor.gov Compound Interest Calculator for the underlying financial or reporting context. Spreadsheet-related behavior is checked against Microsoft’s financial-function documentation. Examples are illustrative and use the formula displayed on the page.