How to Add the Sum of a Column in Excel (7 Easy Ways)

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Fortunately, many of us use Excel in our business organizations. In any business organization, we use Excel to organize data as per need and make databases for the future. Moreover, one interesting thing is that we need to add up all the cells in a column. Here, all the ways to add up a column in Excel will be discussed. So, you will be able to apply multiple methods for adding up columns in excel in all conditions. In this article, I will show you 7 easy ways of how to add the sum of a column in Excel. Hence, read through the article to learn more and save time.


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7 Suitable Ways to Add the Sum of a Column in Excel

In this tutorial, I will show you how to add the sum of a column in Excel. Here, I have used 7 different methods to make you understand the scenario properly. For the purpose of demonstration, I have used the following sample dataset. Here, the dataset includes the Names of the Salesman and their monthly Sales.

How to Add the Sum of a Column in Excel Dataset


1. Utilize Status Bar to Add the Sum of a Column

Fortunately, it is the simplest way to get the sum of a column. All you need to do is select the column you want to add up. Additionally, you will get the sum in the bottom right corner of your Excel window. However, one of the disadvantages of this method is you won’t be able to copy the value.

📌 Steps:

  • First of all, select the column where you want the sum.
  • However, it will automatically show the sum in the Status Bar.

Utilize Status Bar to Add the Sum of a Column in Excel

Read More: How to Sum Multiple Rows and Columns in Excel


2. Add the Sum of a Column Using AutoSum

Moreover, you can use AutoSum to add the sum of a column in Excel. But, the disadvantage of this method is, if there is any empty cell in the column, you will only get the sum of the cells after the last empty cell in that column. So, if your dataset has at least one empty cell in the column you want to sum up, do not use this method. Now, follow the steps below.

📌 Steps:

  • At first, select cell C12.

Add the Sum of a Column Using AutoSum

  • Now, press ALT + = key and press Enter.

Read More: Excel Sum Last 5 Values in Row (Formula + VBA Code)


3. Input Excel SUM Function

Fortunately, using the SUM function to add up a column in Excel is the most convenient way. Moreover, you can apply the sum function to all types of datasets and you can use the SUM function in multiple ways. For example, I have taken 2 different scenarios to illustrate the use of this function.


3.1 Sum of a Whole Column

Usually, you can use the function to get the sum of the whole column of your dataset. Hence, go through the following steps.

📌 Steps:

  • In the beginning, select cell C5 and write down the following formula.

=SUM(C5:C10)

Insert SUM Function to Add the Sum in a Column in Excel

However, you can also use the formula below to get the same result.

=SUM(C5,C6,C7,C8,C9,C10)

  • In the end, hit the Enter key to get your desired output.

Read More: How to Add Multiple Cells in Excel (6 Methods)


3.2 Sum of Selected Cells in a Column

If you want to sum up some selected cells in that column instead of the total column, you have to manually select the cells you want to sum up. Moreover, the process is similar to before. However, we will find the sum of sales for 3 salesmen. Hence, follow the steps.

📌 Steps:

  • First, select cell C12 and insert the following formula.

=SUM(C5,C7,C10)

How to Add the Sum of a Column in Excel

  • Last, press Enter button to get the total sales of 3 salesmen.

Read More: Sum Cells in Excel: Continuous, Random, With Criteria, etc.


4. Insert Table in Excel to Find Column Total

Furthermore, you can add the sum through a Table in a column in Excel. However, the process is simple and easy. So, follow the steps mentioned below.

📌 Steps:

  • Initially, select the dataset and go to the Insert tab.
  • Then, click on Table.

Add the Sum Through Table in a Column in Excel

  • Next, check My table has headers box and press OK.

  • After that, go to Table Design and check Total Row.

  • Finally, you will get the sum just below the table.


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5. Apply AGGREGATE Function to Get the Sum of a Column

In addition, to get the sum of a column using the AGGREGATE function you have to type the formula in an empty cell. However, it is used on different functions like AVERAGE, COUNT, MAX, MIN, SUM, PRODUCT, etc. Hence, go through the steps below in order to complete the operation.

📌 Steps:

  • First of all, click on cell C12 and write down the formula below.

=AGGREGATE(9,4,C5:C10)

Apply AGGREGATE Function to Get the Sum of a Column in Excel

  • After all, hit the Enter key to get the result.

Read More: How to Sum Range of Cells in Row Using Excel VBA (6 Easy Methods)


6. Add the Sum with SUBTOTAL Function in Excel

In general, the SUBTOTAL function returns a list or database and it’s in Math/Trig function category. Moreover, it offers 11 Excel functions to perform by inserting the corresponding argument. Hence, read through the steps below.

📌 Steps:

  • Firstly, select cell C12 and write down the following formula.

=SUBTOTAL(9,C5:C10)

Add the Sum with SUBTOTAL Function in Excel

  • Lastly, press Enter to get the total sales.


7. Find Sum Through AutoFill Feature

Last but not least, you can use the Auto Fill feature to add the sum of a column when you already have the sum of another similar column. For the purpose of demonstration, I have added an extra column of Sales for another month to our present dataset. Hence, read through the steps below.

Use of Auto Fill Feature to Add the Sum of a Column in Excel

📌 Steps:

  • Initially, find the sum of Sales 1 column.
  • Afterwards, use the AutoFill tool to the next row.

  • Lastly, the output will appear in the image below.

Read More: Sum If a Cell Contains Text in Excel (6 Suitable Formulas)


How to Add the Sum of a Column in Excel Based on Criteria

When a criterion is given, to make the same you have to use the SUMIF function. Usually, it adds the cells specified by a given condition or criteria. For example, you need to sum up Sales over $11000. For doing this, you have to use the function. So, follow the steps mentioned below in order to complete the task properly.

📌 Steps:

  • In the beginning, click on cell C12 and insert the following formula.

=SUMIF(C5:C10,">11000",C5:C10)

How to Add the Sum of a Column Based on a Criteria

  • In the end, hit the Enter key to get the output according to your criteria.

Read More: How to Sum Multiple Rows in Excel (4 Quick Ways)


Conclusion

These are all the steps you can follow to add the sum of a column in Excel. Overall, in terms of working with time, we need this for various purposes. I have shown multiple methods with their respective examples, but there can be many other iterations depending on numerous situations. Hopefully, you can now easily create the needed adjustments. I sincerely hope you learned something and enjoyed this guide. Please let us know in the comments section below if you have any queries or recommendations.

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Prantick Bala
Prantick Bala

PRANTICK BALA is a marine engineer who loves exploring Excel and VBA programming. Programming, to him, is a time-saving tool for efficiently managing data, files, and internet tasks. He is proficient in Rhino3D, Maxsurf, C++, MS Office, AutoCAD, Excel, and VBA and goes beyond the basics. Armed with a B.Sc in Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering from BUET, he has transitioned into the role of a content developer. Beyond his work, find him immersed in books, exploring new... Read Full Bio

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