As you may know, when working with spreadsheets, it’s common to have a column dedicated to serial numbers. This helps organize the data and provides a unique identifier for each entry. In this article, we will explore different ways to automatically generate serial numbers in Google Sheets using the ROW function.
Multiple Ways of Serial Numbering in Google Sheets
Before we dive into the details of auto serial numbering using the ROW function, let’s take a look at some other methods that beginners might find useful.
At the end of this article, we will also share information on how to auto-increment alphabets and use Roman numerals in Google Sheets. But for now, let’s focus on the different ways to automatically generate serial numbers.
Auto Serial Numbering Using Simple Formula
The simplest way to generate serial numbers in Google Sheets is by using a simple formula. To demonstrate this, let’s take a look at the example below. In cell A4, enter the formula =A3+1 and then copy and paste this formula to the cells below.
This method automatically adjusts the numbering when you insert or delete rows in between. It’s a commonly used method in both Google Sheets and Excel.
Auto Row Numbering Using the Fill Handle
In Excel, you can use the fill handle to easily auto-fill numbers. However, Google Sheets’ fill handling behaves differently. In Google Sheets, you need to manually enter the first two serial numbers and then drag the fill handle down to fill the remaining cells.
Update: Now it works in Google Sheets too!
Automatically Put Serial Number in Google Sheets Using the Row Function
Now let’s explore the ROW function method for auto serial numbering in Google Sheets. The ROW function is used to return the row number of a specified cell.
Syntax: ROW([cell_reference])
For example, =ROW(A3) will return the row number 3 in the active cell.
To start the serial number from a specific row, let’s say row 3, use the formula =ROW(A3)-2. Copy and paste this formula to the cells below or drag the fill handle down. The serial numbers will automatically adjust even if you delete rows in between.
If you want the serial numbers to change when the data group changes, check out our tutorial on Group Wise Serial Numbering in Google Sheets.
Dynamic Auto Serial Numbering in Google Sheets
Now let’s explore the ultimate way to auto serial numbering in Google Sheets using a combination of IF, ArrayFormula, and the ROW function.
Here’s an example of the formula in cell A3: =ArrayFormula(IF(B3:B<>"", ROW(A3:A)-2, "")).
This formula automatically fills the serial numbers in Google Sheets. You only need to apply the formula in cell A3, and it will generate the numbers for the cells below.
Let’s break down the formula:
- The formula
ROW(A3)returns the cell number in A3, which is 3. We subtract 2 to make it 1. To work with infinite rows, use the formulaROW(A3:A)-2and include the ArrayFormula function. - To limit the numbering to specific cells, we use the IF logical function. If column B has no value, the formula won’t assign a number in the corresponding cell under column A.
- The ArrayFormula function allows the formula to automatically expand to the cells below.
You can modify the formula to suit your needs. For example, if you want the serial number to start from column H2, use this formula in cell H2: =ArrayFormula(IF(I2:I<>"", ROW(H2:H)-1, "")).
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are multiple ways to generate auto serial numbers in Google Sheets. While the ROW function is popular, there is also a relatively new function called SEQUENCE that can be used for this purpose. You can read more about the SEQUENCE function here.
Feel free to explore related tutorials on our website, Crawlan.com, including how to use Roman numbers in Google Sheets, how to autofill alphabets, and how to increment months between two given dates in Google Sheets.
We hope these methods help you efficiently manage and organize your data in Google Sheets. Happy serial numbering!
