Skip to main content
Home / Financial Ratio Formulas

Financial ratios

Financial Ratio Formulas

Calculate liquidity, leverage, growth, return and coverage ratios with consistent inputs.

What you can calculate in this section

Calculate liquidity, leverage, growth, return and coverage ratios with consistent inputs. Start with the result you need, then confirm that every input comes from the same period and uses the definition shown on the selected page.

A calculator returns a mathematical result. The worked example and limitations explain whether that result belongs in the decision you are making.

10 guides and calculators

Each page below gives the direct definition first, then the equation or method, inputs, sample calculation, common mistakes and related formulas.

tool

CAGR Formula

cagr formula explained with the formula, inputs, example and limitations.

Open CAGR Formula →
glossary

Return On Assets

return on assets explained with the formula, inputs, example and limitations.

Open Return On Assets →

How to choose the right formula

  1. Name the decision.
    Decide whether you need a value, rate, margin, return, balance or comparison.
  2. Match the timing.
    Use annual figures with annual figures and distinguish a point-in-time balance from a period flow.
  3. Check the definition.
    Confirm what each numerator, denominator, cash flow or cost includes.
  4. Run an example.
    Reproduce the sample result before entering your own figures.
  5. Test another case.
    Change one assumption at a time and record what drives the answer.

Frequently asked questions

What is financial ratio formulas?

Calculate liquidity, leverage, growth, return and coverage ratios with consistent inputs.

How should I use financial ratio formulas?

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 financial ratio formulas?

The most common mistake is choosing a familiar formula before defining the decision, period, units and available inputs.

Can I calculate financial ratio formulas 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

The section’s financial context is checked against Beginners’ Guide to Financial Statements. Each leaf page names the source used for its specific formula or reporting relationship.

Explore another formula family