Hey there, besties! Today, we’re going to show you exactly how to sum a column in Google Sheets. We’ll cover how to totalize a column using the SUM function. So, buckle up and follow these simple steps!
To make things easier, we’ve created a sample dataset for demonstration purposes. Just click here to access the sheet and follow along at home.
How to Sum a Column in Google Sheets Using the SUM Function
The SUM function can be accessed by clicking on the Σ function button in the toolbar. It’s a more versatile method because you can click on any cell where you want to display the sum.
Check out the example below to see how the SUM function is used:
1. Click on a Cell Where You Want to Display the Sum of Your Column
Click to highlight the cell where you want to display the sum of the column. It can be any empty cell of your choice.
In our example, we’ll select the empty cell G4.
2. Click on Σ in the Toolbar, Then Choose SUM
In the top navigation toolbar, click on the Σ symbol. It’s the function button that will open the dropdown menu of functions. Select the SUM option located at the top of this menu.
3. Highlight the Cells to Include in the Formula
Click and drag over the cells in the column. An orange border will surround your selection, indicating that it will be part of the formula.
In our example, we’ll drag over the range of cells in the Quantity column, excluding the header.
4. Press Enter to See the Total
Press the Enter key. The formula will be inserted into the chosen cell, and the sum results will be displayed.
As seen in our example, the sum results have been displayed in cell G4.
How to Totalize a Column in Google Sheets Using Auto Fill
Another method for totalizing a column is by typing the equal sign (=) in an empty cell below a column of numbers. Google Sheets will automatically prompt you to sum them up. Let’s see this method in action:
1. Select the Cell Below Your Column Data
Click to select an empty cell directly below the data you want to totalize.
In our example, we’re going to totalize the Amount ($) column, so we’ll select the empty cell below our data.
2. Press the Equal Sign (=) on Your Keyboard
In that empty cell, simply press the equal sign (=) on your keyboard.
A preview will appear, displaying an orange box around the data to be included and the SUM formula in gray with pre-filled results.
3. Press Enter to Apply the Auto Fill SUM Formula
Press the Enter key, and the formula will be automatically inserted as shown in the preview. The totalized results will now be displayed.
As seen in our example, the total amount is displayed for the total cells in the Amount ($) column.
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If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our article on how to use the SUM formula in Google Sheets or our article on how to multiply in Google Sheets.
If you’re interested in learning how to attach Google Sheets to emails, we also suggest checking out our detailed guide on Crawlan.com.
Now you’re all set to become a Google Sheets pro! Happy summing!
