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How do you sum multiply a column in Excel?

Published in Excel Formulas 2 mins read

You can sum the result of multiplying corresponding cells in two columns in Excel using the SUMPRODUCT function.

Using the SUMPRODUCT Function

The SUMPRODUCT function multiplies corresponding components in the given arrays (ranges) and returns the sum of those products. Here's how to use it:

  1. Identify the Columns: Determine the columns you want to multiply and sum. For example, Column C might contain quantities, and Column D might contain prices.

  2. Use the SUMPRODUCT Formula: In an empty cell, enter the SUMPRODUCT formula. The general syntax is:

    =SUMPRODUCT(array1, array2, array3, ...)

    Where array1, array2, etc., are the ranges of cells you want to multiply and sum.

  3. Example: Let's say you have quantities in cells C2:C5 and prices in cells D2:D5. The formula would be:

    =SUMPRODUCT(C2:C5,D2:D5)

    This formula multiplies C2*D2 + C3*D3 + C4*D4 + C5*D5 and returns the total sum of these products.

Practical Example

Quantity Price
2 10
3 12
4 15
5 20

To calculate the total value:

  1. In a cell (e.g., E2), enter the formula =SUMPRODUCT(B2:B5,C2:C5).
  2. The result in E2 will be 2*10 + 3*12 + 4*15 + 5*20 = 20 + 36 + 60 + 100 = 216.

So, the SUMPRODUCT function efficiently calculates the sum of the products of corresponding entries in the specified columns.

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