Excel: How to add many cells
In Excel you can add any number of cells. This is simplified by the "= SUM ()" function, which not only allows you to sum cells that are next to or below each other.
Add several contiguous cells
- Click with the mouse (as shown in the picture) on the cell in which the result should appear.
- Now either type in the "SUM ()" function or select the "SUM" button in the menu (outlined in green in the screenshot).
- In both cases you have to enter the first numerical value in brackets. This works by simply clicking on the cell in which the first value is located. Excel now frames it in color and enters it in the SUM function.
- Enter a colon after the first cell specification in the brackets before clicking on the cell in which the last numerical value is to be added. (see the screenshot)
- Make sure that the parenthesis is closed and press the Enter key to see the result.
Sum up multiple independent areas in Excel
- Do the same with the first numerical values that are to be added as described above.
- You can then add any number of numerical values separated by a semicolon (see screenshot). The formula is then: "= SUM ([number1]: [number2]; [number3]: [number4] ...)"
The practical tip also refers to MS Excel 2010.