# COUNTIF: count cells that match a condition

COUNTIF counts matching entries, such as paid orders, completed tasks, or values above a threshold.

## Syntax

`=COUNTIF(range, criteria)`

## A simple example

`=COUNTIF(B2:B4,"Paid")`

For Paid, Pending, and Paid, the result is 2. The first argument is the range and the second is the rule.

## What to watch for

Put text criteria and comparison expressions in quotation marks. For example, =COUNTIF(B2:B4,">=10") counts numbers at least 10. COUNTIF is not case-sensitive.

## 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.