Simple (web?) application for producing something like a bank statement - ideas?

[Jim Byrnes]

On 06/13/2012 04:38 AM, Chris Green wrote:
>>
>> a spreadsheet is probably the best solution.  If you enter the formula
>> in the top cell of the running balance column yoiu can use the drag
>> handle to automatically enter the appropriate formula in all the cells
>> below it; you don't need to enter the formula in each cell manually.
>>
> But the cells aren't there below it until the 'next line' has been entered.
>
> I don't want a huge table of emptiness with just a few rows and columns
> with data in them (as seems to be the norm with most Spreadsheet use I
> have seen).
>
> When there are (say) eight debit/credit entries in my table I just want
> to see eight rows in the spreadsheet with (probably) just three or four
> columns.

In that case turn off the display of grid lines so unused cells are not 
shown.  Then if you know how many entries you will have to make just 
copy your formula to that many lines.

> If I understand you correctly you are saying one should copy the formula
> for the running balance into the Balance column for lots of columns into
> the future - is this right?
>
> Another issue is that the formula is *different* for the running balance
> as you go down isn't it as it's the sum of all rows up to and including
> the current row and the current row changes as you go down the table.  I
> seem to remember there isn't an easy way to code this in most
> spreadsheets.
>

The spreadsheet will change the formula to the correct one for you. 
Just select the last cell in your balance column and copy it to the 
clipboard.  Then select the cell immediately under that cell and drag it 
down the number of lines necessary to match the number of entries you 
will make.  Then set the spreadsheet to move one cell to the right when 
hitting the enter key.  When you have entered all the lines date hit 
down arrow then home and you will be at the start of a fresh line ready 
to enter more data.

Regards,  Jim