There are many such formulas, such as Willan's 1964 simple formula for the nth prime. But they are basically all hiding a sieve, Wilson's theorem, the prime co

There are many such formulas, such as Willan's 1964 simple formula for the nth prime. But they are basically all hiding a sieve, Wilson's theorem, the prime count function, or some other calculation. That is, none of them are at all practical, and most offer no insight. I'd recommend perusing "Formulas for Primes" by Underwood Dudley, 1983. Free online link: http://www.maa.org/programs/faculty-and-departments/classroom-capsules-and-notes/formulas-for-primes http://www.maa.org/programs/faculty-and-departments/classroo...