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Formulas > =SUM()

How To Use SUM() Function in Google Sheets

Description

Returns the sum of a series of numbers and/or cells.

Common questions about the SUM formula include:
  • How can I use the SUM formula? Carefully
  • What is the syntax of the SUM formula? SUM(value1, [value2, ...])
  • What are the parameters of the SUM formula? Any numerical values.

How can the SUM formula be used appropriately?
The SUM formula can be used appropriately by including specific references to cells or cell ranges, referring to the values that the formula should add together.

How can the SUM formula be commonly mistyped?
The SUM formula can be commonly mistyped by putting in incorrect cell references or referencing the wrong range of values.
The SUM formula can be misspelled as SUMM, or USM, or ADDITUP, or ADDITION, or SUMATION, or SUMMARY

What are common ways the SUM formula can be used inappropriately?
Common ways the SUM formula is used inappropriately include adding strings of text, applying other mathematical operators to the SUM formula's parameters, and referring to a range greater than what is necessary.

What are some common pitfalls when using the SUM formula?
Common pitfalls when using the SUM formula include numerical errors due to mistyped parameters, incorrect calculation due to using text values instead of numeric values, and incorrect cell references resulting in incorrect summation.

What are some common mistakes when using the SUM formula?
Common mistakes when using the SUM Formula include entering cell references instead of values, using incorrect ranges or parameters, and using complex formulas when simply using SUM is sufficient.

What are some common misconceptions people have with the SUM formula?
Common misconceptions people might have with the SUM Formula include thinking that it depends on a particular order of entries or that it can include non-numerical values which then are concatenated to the result. It cannot do that.

Google Sheet Formula Frustrations Solved
Find every formula you'll ever need in Google Sheets here at Better Sheets. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced user, I’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide of 504 formulas.

Are you struggling to find a specific value in a column of data? Look no further than the powerful VLOOKUP formula. Or maybe you need to calculate the sum of values that meet specific criteria - try out SUMIF. And when it comes to frequency of values, COUNTIF has you covered.

Have you heard of the mysterious and powerful IF formula? It can turn your spreadsheets into gateways of productivity. And don't forget about the oft-partner ISBLANK(). 

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How To Actually Use SUM() in Sheets

SUM(value1, [value2, ...])
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