Which Formula?

Decision Tree for Finance Problems

Follow the decision tree to find exactly the formula you need. Start by identifying what you're solving for.

1
Category
2
Type
3
Formula

What Are You Solving For?

Quick Reference: Core Formulas

Situation Formula Use When
Future Value FV = PV × (1+r)n Growing money forward
Present Value PV = FV ÷ (1+r)n Discounting money back
Annuity PV PV = PMT × [(1−(1+r)−n)/r] Loan/lease valuation
Growing Perpetuity PV = D₁ ÷ (r−g) Stock valuation (DDM)
NPV Σ [CFₜ ÷ (1+r)t] Project decisions
CAPM Rf + β(Rm−Rf) Required return
WACC (E/V×Re) + (D/V×Rd×(1−T)) Discount rate
ROE Net Income ÷ Equity Profitability
DuPont Analysis Margin × Turnover × Leverage ROE breakdown
Sustainable Growth g = ROE × Retention Rate Max growth rate