https://bugs.documentfoundation.org/show_bug.cgi?id=172799

--- Comment #4 from ady <[email protected]> ---
The error codes are based on what devs themselves introduce for each function,
and we already see some inaccurate codes (numbers) in some cases. If there is
no "time" to use adequate error codes, there is less time / patience /
resources to be more accurate in additional explanations, whether they are
displayed on some tool tip or on some other place.

Moreover, the error code is just one (initial) possibility; it does not mean
that the actual error is exactly that one. This is similar to what happens when
Calc claims that there is some typo in a formula (that was just typed-in) and
suggests an alternative; more than once the suggestion does not match what the
user wanted to type-in. IOW, a different mistake / typo has to be corrected, by
the user.

It would be a waste of time and resources trying to read users' minds and to
provide additional details om screen when there is no real way to actually
solve the problem. The error code and its message (on the status bar) are just
generic initial hints, that may or may not be accurate. It is up to the user to
investigate, inform himself, analyze the formula and find out what actually is
wrong. This process is improved by experience. Claiming that Calc can give
better and more accurate solutions for this will only cause users to complain
about inaccurate or inadequate information given by Calc.

As for reading the wiki, users don't always need to go elsewhere to solve the
problem. Again, it is up to experience. The flexibility of spreadsheet tools is
both a strength and a weakness.

Regarding the current "Formula" tool tip, perhaps there are other tool tips
depending on the type of error; IDK. Perhaps the intention is just to say to
the user "pay attention to the formula in the current cell", as simple as that,
just making the message more "discover-able" for newbies by the mere appearance
of the tool tip. If that's it, I would not recommend changing it; the only
consequence would be to add load to translators with no meaningful outcome.

I consider this a waste of time. It will not solve any actual problem. If the
user cannot solve the problem with the current info, he will need to get help
elsewhere anyway, whether it is reading something or seeking help from others.

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