Excel formula guide · Beginner
SUM: add numbers in Excel
Use SUM to add a list of values or a continuous range without writing a long chain of plus signs.
Practice this formulaSyntax
=SUM(number1, [number2], …)
A simple example
=SUM(B2:B4)
If B2, B3, and B4 contain 12, 8, and 15, the result is 35. The colon includes every cell between the start and end of the range.
What to watch for
A comma separates arguments; a colon describes a range. =SUM(B2,B4) skips B3. Numbers stored as text in a referenced range may be ignored.
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.