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You're working on a spreadsheet and suddenly you need a quick total for a list of numbers.

There's a much easier way to do this than adding things up by hand or endlessly scrolling through data. Excel's sum function can be a lifesaver, whether you're tracking sales, expenses, or even something as simple as a grocery budget.

In this blog, we will look at the best ways to add columns in Excel Ready to add it all up?

Steps to sum a column in Excel
Adding a column in Excel is a handy trick that you'll find yourself using more often than vp financial email list you think. It's simple, and with just a few clicks, you'll be adding up your data in no time.

Let's review the steps.

Using AutoSum for quick results
Step #1: Select the cell for the total
The first step is to select the cell in which the total will appear.

In the following example, cells B3 through B6 contain the data, and cell B8 is the selected total.

See how to sum a column in Excel with ease: How to sum a column in Excel

Select the cell where you want your answer; here it is B8

Step #2: Access the AutoSum function
Navigate to the Home tab of the Excel ribbon.

Look for the AutoSum button. It's represented by the Greek letter sigma (Σ) in the editing group on the right side of the ribbon.

You can find the AutoSum button on the 'Home' ribbon: How to sum a column in Excel

You can find the AutoSum button on the 'Home' ribbon