Using the SUM Function

SUM (number_list)

Parameter

Description

number_list

list of numbers you wish to add (or, list or range of cells whose values you want to add)

Users experienced in entering formulas may wish to use the SUM function when finding the total of a selection of cells. To use this function:

  1. Click on the cell you want the insert the sum value into.

  2. Type in the formula. For example, to find the sum of cells A1 to A5, type =SUM(A1:A5).

  3. Press Enter. The result of your formula will appear in the cell. Note that this sum is a value, and thus, can be used in formulas and calculations. It will also be included in totals and subtotals.

Examples:

Formula

Result

=SUM (B1, B2, C3, C6)

returns the sum of values in cells B1, B2, C3, and C6

=SUM (C5:G30)

returns the sum of values in cells C5 to G30

=SUM (A1:A10, C1:C10)

returns the sum of values in cells A1 to A10, and C1 to C10

=SUM (1, 2, 3, 4)

10

=SUM (A1, 10, 2)

returns the value of A1 increased by 12 (i.e., A1+10+2)

 

See Also:

Arithmetic Functions