How To Sum a Column in Google Sheets

Summing numbers in a column is a fundamental task in Google Sheets, and there are multiple ways to do it efficiently. This guide will walk you through four quick and effective methods to sum a column of numbers automatically. The goal here is to save time, so I’ll make sure to include screenshots and animated gifs that show each step.

Note that these methods work just as well in Microsoft Excel as they do in Google Sheets. The SUM function works the same way in both programs.

How To Sum a Column in Google Sheets

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 the simplest way to make Google Sheets add up a column.

1. Type the equals sign (=) into the cell you want to return the total.
2. Type SUM(.
3. Select the range you want to add up and press “Enter.“

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.Note that I’m highlighting the cells in column A, then inserting the SUM formula in cell C2. That automatically gives me the total amount.

That’s the quick answer.

It’s also possible to get the subtotal of a column. I’ll explain that next.

Note that this method sums the whole column. It doesn’t just get a partial list. The subtotal for every value in column A gets added to the value in C2 when we use the auto-sum feature.

Easy formula with step by step instructions:

1. Type the equals sign (=) into the cell you want to return the total
2. Type SUM(
3. Select the column header or type the column’s name (A:A for column A as an example)
4. Press “Enter“

Here is what a full formula summing Column A would look like:

=SUM(A:A)

As you can see in the example above, I can add additional information later. I added numbers beyond cell A11 without updating the SUM function column. It automatically incorporates those new numbers because the syntax accepts all numbers within my chosen column.

That’s helpful for large data sets, especially those without duplicate data.

Note: For this to work, you must enter the formula in a cell, not in the same column. Keeping it in the same column will give a reference error, as there would be a circular reference issue.

Google Sheets is a smart program that often suggests the range as you type. If it looks correct, press “Enter” instead of continuing to type. That’s the autocomplete feature.

The Syntax of the SUM Function

One of my favorite ways to review a function in Google Sheets is to examine its variables. For example, here is the syntax for the SUM formula in Google Sheets:

=SUM(value, [value2], ...)

The Google Sheet sum formula is pretty simple, especially when you break down the components:

• =SUM: This indicates the function name. It informs Google Sheets about the type of calculation to make.
• Value: This represents the necessary argument for the function to work (I’ll walk you through some examples below to give you a better understanding)
• A comma: This is an essential component and must be included between each value to signify a new value.
• [value2]: This is optional in the Google Sheets formula for the sum of a column. It is only used when adding another argument to the SUM formula.

If you don’t want to sum the whole column, just select the cells you want to add. You can enter cells individually by selecting them with and holding the control button to create a dispersed set.

Or, just click and highlight cells to sum a column range.

How To Sum Multiple Columns in Google Sheets

The first two examples I gave you at the beginning of the article will be enough to finish the Google Sheets SUM of column answers you need in your spreadsheet. But, if you need to sum multiple columns or a range of cells, you’ll need to dive a bit further. Here’s what to know.

To SUM multiple ranges of data, you can specify the two ranges with a comma in between.

Here’s how to get the sum of two columns in Google Sheets:

1. Type =SUM( into an empty cell.
2. Type or click and drag to select the first range of cells.
3. Type a comma.
4. Type or click and drag to select the second cell range and put a closing parenthesis.
5. Press “Enter.”

Here’s an example of what a formula to sum multiple ranges would look like

=SUM(A1:A13, B1:B13)

You can also use the SUMIF function if you want to make this even smarter. SUMIF allows you to add sums if they meet specific criteria.

How To Sum Single Values

You can also add numbers using single values.

1. Type =SUM( into an empty cell
2. Click each cell you want to include and type a comma between each click.
3. Add a closing bracket and press Enter

Note: You can also type values instead of cell references, like in the example formula below

=SUM(A2, B2, C5, 15)

Said another way, this allows you to choose only specific values from specific cells instead of a cohesive range.

How To SUM Multiple Ranges and Single Cells

You can combine or sum ranges or single-cell values to merge your data. You have to use what you learned from the last two examples. Here’s how to add columns in Google Sheets from multiple ranges:

The range selector is one way to choose what to add, but it pairs with single cells, too. Just add a comma, then type the name of the cell you want to include. That adds it to the calculation even if it’s outside the range.

1. Type =SUM( into an empty cell.
2. Click and drag over each range you want to include with commas between each.
3. Repeat the previous steps with individual cells.
4. Add a closing bracket and press “Enter.”

=SUM(A1:A13, B1:B13, C5)

How To SUM on Google Sheets: Video

Here’s a 2-minute video on how to auto sum in Google Sheets! It focuses on how to sum a column, how to sum a range, and the quickest way to find a sum (even without a formula).

In my personal experience, these are the best summation hacks in any spreadsheet software.

How To Get Google Sheets to Add up a Column Using the Status Bar

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.

How To SUM Rows In Google Sheets

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.

Using the Σ Function Menu Instead of Typing Formulas

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:

1. Select the empty cell to perform the calculation.
2. Click the Σ function shortcut.
3. Click SUM.
4. Click and drag over the range or type the range.
5. Press “Enter.”

Basically, this is a quick way to insert the SUM function without having to type it out. Just click the button, select cells to add, and hit the enter key.

How To Sum a Column in Google Sheets with Text

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.

How To Sum a Column in Google Sheets on a Mobile Device

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:

1. Tap the cell where you want the results.
2. Tap “Enter” text or formula to display the keyboard.

3. Type the SUM formula into the text box.

4. Select the cells in the column you want to add up.

5. Once you’re done, tap the checkmark.

The formula will return the sum of the column selected in the cell.

How to Add Numbers in a Column or Row Individually in Google Sheets

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:

1. In the first cell, put your first addend.
2. Then, select another cell and place the second addend.
3. Next, click another cell and input the following syntax:

=B2+C2

4. After that, press “Enter” or “Return” to see your results.

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.

What Does the SUM Function Do?

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.

Final Thoughts on How To Sum a Column in Google Sheets

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.

Related:

• How To Multiply in Google Sheets (Numbers, Cells, or Columns)
• How To Divide in Google Sheets (Numbers, Cells, or Columns)
• How To Merge Cells In Google Sheets
• How To Apply a Formula to an Entire Column in Google Sheets