SUM

Beginner

Math & Calculation

Adds all numbers in a range of cells. The SUM function is one of the most commonly used functions in Excel.

Syntax
=SUM(number1, [number2], ...)
Parameters
number1
Required
(number | range)

The first number or range to add

number2(number | range)

Additional numbers or ranges to add (optional)

Examples
Real-world examples to help you understand how to use SUM

Sum a range of cells

=SUM(A1:A10)

Adds all values in cells A1 through A10

Result: Sum of all values

Sum multiple ranges

=SUM(A1:A10, C1:C10)

Adds all values in A1:A10 and C1:C10

Result: Combined sum

Sum with individual cells

=SUM(A1, B2, C3, 100)

Adds specific cells and a constant number

Result: Sum of A1+B2+C3+100

Common Use Cases
  • ✓Calculate total sales or revenue
  • ✓Add up expenses or costs
  • ✓Compute sum of scores or grades
  • ✓Aggregate numerical data
  • ✓Create financial reports
Pro Tips
  • 💡SUM ignores text and logical values
  • 💡Use SUM instead of adding cells manually (A1+A2+A3)
  • 💡You can sum entire columns: =SUM(A:A)
  • 💡Combine with other functions for complex calculations
Common Errors
  • ⚠️#VALUE! - Occurs when text is directly referenced
  • ⚠️#REF! - Happens when referenced cells are deleted
  • ⚠️Incorrect results from hidden rows (use SUBTOTAL instead)
Related Formulas
SUMIFSUMIFSAVERAGECOUNT

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