How are errors usually represented in spreadsheet functions?

Errors in spreadsheet functions are typically represented by relevant error codes. These error codes are systematic and standardized indicators that help users quickly identify the nature of the issue within a formula or function. For instance, common error codes include #DIV/0! which indicates a division by zero, or #VALUE! which signifies an invalid data type used in a calculation.

Using error codes helps maintain clarity and enables more efficient troubleshooting, as these codes can provide specific information about what went wrong with a computation. In contrast, numerical values might indicate results of calculations or data entries, text descriptions can be less concise and may not convey the exact nature of the error, and highlighted cells could draw attention to problematic data without necessarily clarifying the underlying issue. Therefore, error codes serve as the most effective method for representing errors in spreadsheet functions.