Use the Sum Function in Microsoft Excel

Using the SUM function in Excel is an easy way to save yourself lots of time.

Steps

Writing a Sum Formula

  1. Decide what column of numbers or words you would like to add up
  2. Select the cell where you'd like the answer to populate
  3. Type the equals sign then SUM. Like this: =SUM
  4. Type out the first cell reference, then a colon, then the last cell reference. Like this: =Sum(A2:A4).
  5. Press enter. Excel will add up the numbers in cells A2 to A4

Using AutoSum

  1. If you have a complete column or row of numbers in a row to add, use AutoSum. Click into the cell at the end of the list you want to add (below or next to the given numbers).
    • In Windows, press Alt and = at the same time.
    • On a Mac, press Command and Shift and T at the same time.
    • Or on any computer, you can select the Autosum button from the Excel menu/ribbon.
  2. Confirm that the highlighted cells are the ones you want to add up.
  3. Press enter for the result.

Copying the Sum Function to Other Columns

  1. If you have multiple columns to add up, place your mouse pointer to the bottom right of the cell you just finished adding up. The pointer will turn into a thick black cross
  2. Hold down your left mouse button and keep it held down as you drag it across all of the cells you wish to add.
  3. Move your mouse pointer over the last cell, let go of the button. Excel will AutoFill the rest of the formulas for you!



Tips

  • Once you start typing after the = sign, Excel will present you with a drop down list of available functions. Click once with the left mouse button, in this case, on SUM to highlight it.
  • Think of the colon as the word TO, for instance, B4 TO B7

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