SUM Function
SUM calculates the sum of numeric values in a range.
Syntax
Parameters
| Parameter | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| number1 | The first number, cell reference, or range to add. | Required |
| number2 | Optional additional numbers, cell references, or ranges to add. | Optional |
Basic Example
Sum values in a column
=SUM(A1:A10)Adds all numeric values in cells A1 through A10.
Advanced Examples
Example 1: Sum across multiple sheets
Multi-sheet calculationsSum the same range across multiple worksheets
=SUM(Sheet1:Sheet3!A1:A10)Example 2: Conditional sum with SUMIF
Filtered totalsSum only values that meet a condition
=SUMIF(A1:A10, ">100")How SUM Works
SUM iterates through each cell in the specified range, adds up numeric values, and ignores text, blank cells, and error values.
Important Notes & Limitations
SUM ignores text and blank cells.
For conditional summing, use SUMIF or SUMIFS.
Common Errors & Fixes
#VALUE!Text or error values in the rangeFix: Check for non-numeric values or use SUMIF to exclude errors.
Download Practice File
SUM
sumPractice SUM with Real Data
Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the SUM function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.
File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps
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