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
Step 1. Choose which column of numbers or words you want to add
Step 2. Select the cell where you want the result to appear
Step 3. Type the equal sign and then SUM
Like this: = SUM
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).
Step 5. Hit enter
Excel will add the numbers in cells B4 to B7
Method 2 of 3: Using Auto Add
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.
Step 2. Verify that the highlighted cells are the ones you want to sum
Step 3. Hit enter to get the result
Method 3 of 3: Extend the Sum Function to Other Columns
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
Step 2. While holding down your left mouse button, drag it to select all the cells you want to add
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
