Using the SUM function in Excel is an easy way to save a lot of time.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Write a Sum Formula
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Step 1. Choose which column of numbers or words you want to add
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Step 2. Select the cell where you want the result to appear
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Step 3. Type the equal sign and then SUM
Like this: = SUM
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Step 4. Enter the reference of the first cell, then two points, and finally the reference of the last cell
Like this: = Sum (B4: B7).
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Step 5. Hit enter
Excel will add the numbers in cells B4 to B7
Method 2 of 3: Using Auto Add
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Step 1. If you want to add a column or a whole row of numbers, use Auto Add
Click on the cell at the end of the list of numbers you want to add (below or next to the given numbers).
- If you are using Windows, press alt="Image" and = at the same time.
- If you're using a Mac, press Command, Shift, and T at the same time.
- On any other computer, you can select the AutoSum button from the Excel menu / ribbon.
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Step 2. Verify that the highlighted cells are the ones you want to sum
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Step 3. Hit enter to get the result
Method 3 of 3: Extend the Sum Function to Other Columns
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Step 1. If you want to add more columns together, place the mouse pointer at the bottom right of the cell you just added
The pointer will turn into a thick black cross
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Step 2. While holding down your left mouse button, drag it to select all the cells you want to add
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Step 3. Move the mouse pointer to the last cell, release the button
Excel will automatically insert the rest of the formulas for you!
Advice
- When you start typing something after the = sign, Excel will show you a drop-down menu of available functions. Click once with the left mouse button on SUM, in this case, to highlight it.
- Think of the colon as the words FROM… A, for example, FROM B4 to B7