# COUNT: count numeric cells in Excel

COUNT tells you how many cells contain numbers. Use it to check how many numeric observations you actually have.

## Syntax

`=COUNT(value1, [value2], …)`

## A simple example

`=COUNT(B2:B4)`

If the cells contain 120, Pending, and 84, COUNT returns 2. It ignores the text entry.

## What to watch for

COUNT includes zero. Use COUNTA when you want to count nonempty cells, including text; use COUNTIF when a condition decides which cells qualify.

## Build confidence with practice

Try the guided exercise in Sheetstep, then change a number in the practice workbook and observe the result. Use the skills quiz to check what you remember.