How to Multiply Multiple Cells by the Same Number in Google Sheets?

There are several ways to multiply multiple cells by the same number in Google Sheets, depending on whether you want to change the original cells or create new ones with the multiplied values.

Method 1: Using a Formula in a New Cell/Range (Non-Destructive)

This method leaves the original cells untouched and displays the results in new cells.

1. Identify the cells you want to multiply. For example, A1:A10 represents the range from cell A1 to A10.
2. Choose a cell or range of cells where you want the results to appear.
3. Enter the following formula in the top-left cell of your result range: =A1*X (Replace A1 with the first cell in your source range and X with the number you want to multiply by). For instance, if you want to multiply the cells A1:A10 by 2, and your output range starts at B1, you would put =A1*2 in cell B1.
4. Drag the fill handle (the small square at the bottom-right of the cell) down or across to apply the formula to the entire range. Google Sheets will automatically adjust the cell references (A1, A2, A3, etc.).

Example:

Let's say you have values in A1:A3 (1, 2, 3 respectively) and you want to multiply them all by 5, putting the results in B1:B3.

• In cell B1, enter the formula =A1*5
• Drag the fill handle from B1 down to B3.
• B1 will now show 5, B2 will show 10, and B3 will show 15. The original values in A1:A3 remain unchanged.

Method 2: Using Paste Special (Overwrites Original Cells)

This method changes the original cell values. It involves copying the multiplier and using the "Paste Special" function to multiply.

1. Enter the multiplier number in any empty cell (e.g., C1).
2. Copy the cell containing the multiplier (C1).
3. Select the range of cells you want to multiply (e.g., A1:A10).
4. Right-click on the selected range.
5. Select "Paste special" and then "Paste values only." (This step is only needed if the multiplier cell contains a formula.)
6. Right-click on the selected range again.
7. Select "Paste special" and then "Multiply."

This will multiply each cell in the selected range (A1:A10) by the value in the copied cell (C1), and the original values in A1:A10 will be overwritten.

Method 3: Using ARRAYFORMULA (Non-Destructive, for more complex scenarios)

This is best for larger ranges, more advanced formulas, or when other formulas might interfere.

1. Identify the range you want to multiply. For example, A1:A10.
2. Choose a cell where you want the resulting array to begin.
3. Enter the following formula: =ARRAYFORMULA(A1:A10*X) (Replace A1:A10 with your desired range and X with the number you want to multiply by).

Example:

=ARRAYFORMULA(A1:A5*2) will multiply each cell in the range A1:A5 by 2 and display the results in a vertical array starting from the cell where you entered the formula.

Choosing the Right Method

• Use Method 1 (Formula) if you want to keep your original data and view the multiplied results in a separate location. This is generally the safest approach.
• Use Method 2 (Paste Special) if you want to directly modify your original data and don't need to retain the original values. Be cautious when using this method, as it's irreversible without a backup.
• Use Method 3 (ARRAYFORMULA) for larger, more complex datasets, or when working with arrays extensively.