Want to learn how to sum a column in Google Sheets? The easiest way to sum a column in Google Sheets is to use the SUM function.
To do this, you type =SUM() and put the column or range inside the brackets.
For example, if I wanted to get the total of the entire column A, I would type =SUM(A:A).
If I wanted to sum a range within a column, it would look more like =SUM(A1:A12).
Confused? Don’t worry; my step-by-step article will show you exactly how to do it. So, follow along, see the screenshots with examples, and within five minutes, you’ll use the SUM function to manage your datasets! Let’s get started.
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Adding some cells or a column is among the most common things users do in Google Sheets. You can use multiple functions to add up a column in Google Sheets, including the SUBTOTAL and SUM functions.
Here’s how to make Google Sheets add up a column.
For example, here is an example of the SUM formula for a column in Google Sheets:
=SUM(A1:A11)
The GIF below shows the sums of the cell numbers from A2 to A11. It will not update with this formula if you want to add information beyond those cells.
You can also find the sum of a column without using a formula. All you need is the status bar, which adds the numbers in a range to display the cell value in which you have built your formula.
To find the sum of a column using the status bar, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Select the data range
Step 2: Click on the status bar at the bottom right corner of the screen.
Step 3: You’ll find the options Sum, Average, Min, Max, and Count. Select “Sum.”
This will show you the sum of the data in the column and allow you to keep a consistent running total in Google Sheets. However, it won’t return the results to any cell in your spreadsheet.
You can use the above method for rows too. You have to use the cell references for the row instead of the column, like so:
As you can see, it works the same as columns with cell references. It also works the same if you want to sum the entire row. For example, to sum up Column B, you would use B:B as the criteria. Similarly, to learn how to sum the column in Google Sheets, use 1:1 as the argument, like in the example below.
Remember, you must ensure the cell performing the calculation is not in the same cell to avoid a #REF! Error.
An alternative shortcut to find the total value of a column is to use the functions button instead of typing the SUM function. This can improve your navigation and efficiency because it eliminates the need for manual input.
Follow these steps to learn how:
If you’re considering combining two pieces of text into one value using the addition operator or the ADD function, expect Google Sheets to display the wrong formula. This is because it doesn’t work like Python, a coding language that allows you to add two strings with a plus sign (+).
Instead, you may want to check out the CONCAT and CONCATENATE functions when combining texts in a spreadsheet. To learn more about these functions, read our tutorial on How to Append Text to Each Cell in a Column in Google Sheets to learn more about adding strings.
You can also perform most of the functions in the Google Sheets mobile app, including the Google Sheet sum of a column function.
Here’s how to sum a column in Google Sheets using the mobile app:
The formula will return the sum of the column selected in the cell.
If you need to add cells together, you can also try inputting the two numbers you want to add into separate cells. Then, you can use the addition equation to give you the correct sum.
Follow the steps below to learn how to do it:
=B2+C2
Your sum will automatically change as you modify the addends entered in your cells. This way, you can create a foolproof formula while using an automatic calculator.
In my article on how to add in Google Sheets, this process relies on the SUM function. If you haven’t read the article, here is a simple recap.
When you use the SUM function in Google Sheets, it returns the sum of all the numbers in the column into the cell. Google Sheets will predict the SUM formula for you as a suggestion. These guesses are often correct, but it is always worthwhile for you to double-check the data to ensure there are no mistakes.
If you can’t be bothered continuing to learn how to navigate Google Sheets, we likely have the perfect template for you to use instead. Check out our extensive range of premium templates by clicking the button below. And don’t forget to use the discount code SSP for 50% off.
The SUM function is one of the most straightforward formulas to use in Google Sheets once you get the hang of it. And, when you’ve had enough Google Spreadsheet sum of column practice, you’ll feel more comfortable tackling complicated formulas.
Now you know how to sum a column in Google Sheets. But there’s still plenty more to learn about spreadsheets. Check out some guides below, or consider taking a spreadsheet course to increase your knowledge.
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