Describe how to add the value in a column or row by using Autos

1 answer

To add values in a column or row using the "AutoSum" feature in spreadsheet applications like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, follow these steps:

For Microsoft Excel:

  1. Open your Spreadsheet: Launch Excel and open the workbook containing the data.

  2. Select the Cell for the Total:

    • If you want to add values in a column, select the cell directly below the last number in that column.
    • If you are adding values in a row, select the cell immediately to the right of the last number in that row.
  3. Use AutoSum:

    • Go to the Home tab on the Ribbon.
    • Look for the Editing group on the right side.
    • Click on the AutoSum button (which looks like the Greek letter Sigma: Σ).
    • Excel will automatically create a sum formula for the selected range of cells it detects.
  4. Confirm the Range:

    • Excel will highlight the range of cells it plans to sum. You can adjust this range if it’s not correct.
    • Press Enter to complete the formula.
  5. View the Result: The total will now be displayed in the selected cell.

For Google Sheets:

  1. Open Your Spreadsheet: Launch Google Sheets and open your document.

  2. Select the Cell for the Total:

    • For a column total, click on the cell below the last entry in that column.
    • For a row total, click on the cell to the right of the last entry in that row.
  3. Use the Functions Menu:

    • Click on the Functions button (Σ) in the toolbar.
    • From the dropdown, select SUM.
    • Google Sheets will automatically suggest a range to sum.
  4. Check and Adjust the Range:

    • Make sure the highlighted range includes all the numbers you want to sum.
    • If it’s not correct, you can manually drag to adjust the highlighted selection or enter the range in the formula bar.
  5. Press Enter: Hit the Enter key to finalize the formula.

  6. View the Result: The sum of the selected range will be displayed in the cell where you entered the formula.

Keyboard Shortcut (Excel):

Instead of using the AutoSum button, you can simply select the cell where you want the total and press Alt + = (Windows) or Command + Shift + T (Mac). Excel will automatically create the sum formula for you.

Note:

  • Ensure that the cells you are summing contain numeric values; otherwise, they won't be included in the total.
  • The AutoSum feature is a quick and efficient way to sum values without needing to manually enter the formula.