You can perform many different math operations in Google Sheets, including adding numbers. You can add numbers in columns or rows, or even numbers in different cells. Here’s how it’s done.
Add numbers in a single cell
You can quickly add numbers in a single cell with the =#+# formula. For example, to get the sum of 2+2, enter:
=2+2
Press Enter to return the result.
That’s all!
Add the numbers of a single column or row using the SUM function
You can quickly get the sum of numbers in a single row or column by using the SUM function. Let’s say we want to have the sum of the numbers in cells A2 through A6. First, select the cell you want to calculate the sum in, and enter this formula:
=SUM(A2:A6)
This function tells Google Sheets that you want to get the sum of the numbers from A2 through A6. Make sure to use a colon (:) between the cell numbers. If you use a dash (-) which is often used to describe “everything in between”, Google Sheets subtracts the input cells instead.
After entering the correct formula, press Enter and the result will appear.
Similarly, you can add the numbers in a row by taking a similar approach. Let’s say that instead of adding the numbers from column A, we want to add the numbers in row 2 (A2 through E2). Select the cell where you want to calculate the sum, and then enter this formula:
=SUM(A2:E2)
Press Enter to display the results.
Add the number of multiple columns or rows with SUM function
You don’t need to re-enter the formula multiple times. If you want to quickly get the sum of multiple rows or columns, you can enter the formula once, and then use the drag and drop method to get the results quickly.
First enter the SUM function in the cell to get the sum of the first row (or column). So, if you want to get the sum of cells A2 to C2, enter the following:
=SUM(A2:C2)
Press Enter to get the result. Then click the bottom right corner of the cell and drag it down. Google Sheets automatically updates the SUM formula for each row (or column).
Add the number of different cells using the SUM function
You can get the sum of numbers from cells in different columns and rows by simply replacing the colon (:) with a comma (,) in the SUM formula.
For example, to get the sum of cells A2, B3, C5, and D4, enter:
=SUM(A2,B3,C5,D4)
Press Enter to get the result.
Google does the hard work for you
If you just need a quick answer and don’t really have the time to enter a formula, Google understands. All you need to do is highlight the cells you want to get the sum for by clicking and dragging your cursor over them.
Once selected, Google Sheets will automatically add them for you. Just look in the bottom right corner of the window!
Neat right?
Google Sheets is a fantastic tool for these basic math operations. In addition to addition, you can also subtract, multiply and divide numbers. Who needs a calculator?
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