Sum Function
The SUM () function and it's counterparts are used to generate important information from your data with minimal effort.
Functions
We just saw how to enter a formula once, using relative cell referencing, and then copying the formula to other cells. Although you only had to type the formula once, this process is tedious and introduces a greater chance for error.
Fortunately, Excel comes with several built-in functions that perform many common mathematical calculations, such as SUM(), AVERAGE(), MIN(), MAX() etc.
Sum Function
Sean wants to use the SUM() function to add the totals with minimal effort!
1. Look at the row showing Peter’s marks.
2. Select cell I5 and click inside the formula bar to make the blinking cursor appear.
3. Type the formula =Sum(C5:H5), meaning the sum of cells from C5 to H5.
4. Press Enter.
5. Peter’s total mark of 510 appears inside cell H9.
The formula =SUM(C5:H5) tells Excel to add the figures in the range of cells C5 to H5 and determine the sum of these cells.
Now let’s calculate Henry’s total marks.
1. Select cell I6.
2. Click inside the formula bar, and type the formula =SUM(C6:H6).
3. Press Enter
The total, 460, appears.
Activity: Find out Jill’s total with the formula = SUM(C7:H7). Calculate the total marks manually for Mark and Mac, and by using the SUM function for Laura and Stephen.
AutoSum
Another great shortcut feature that replicates the SUM() function is AutoSum.
Lets see how to use AutoSum to total Clive’s marks:
1. Select the range C12:H12.
2. Click the AutoSum button.
3. The values in the selected range will be added and displayed in cell H17.
