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How to Put the Same Formula in Multiple Cells in Google Sheets?

Published in Spreadsheet Formulas 2 mins read

You can easily apply the same formula to multiple cells in Google Sheets by using the fill handle.

Using the Fill Handle

The easiest way to copy a formula is using the fill handle. Here's how:

  1. Select the cell containing the formula you want to copy.
  2. Locate the fill handle: This is the small square at the bottom-right corner of the selected cell.
  3. Click and drag: Click on the fill handle and drag it across the cells where you want the formula to be copied. The formula will automatically adjust relative cell references for each row.
  • As shown in the provided reference, "if I just select the cell I have the little handle on the bottom right I'm just going to click and drag. And voila it is applied to all. Become all the rows in both of these columns."

Alternative Method: Copy and Paste

While the fill handle is the most efficient, you can also use copy and paste:

  1. Copy the cell: Select the cell containing the formula and press Ctrl+C (or Cmd+C on a Mac).
  2. Select destination cells: Select the cells where you want to paste the formula.
  3. Paste: Press Ctrl+V (or Cmd+V on a Mac). Again, cell references will adjust automatically.

Key Things to Remember

  • Relative vs Absolute References: By default, Google Sheets uses relative cell references (e.g., A1). When you copy these, the row and column numbers change. If you need a reference to remain constant use absolute cell references by adding dollar signs ($) such as `$A$1.
  • Consistent Data: Ensure your data is structured consistently so that formula copies work correctly.
  • Large Datasets: For very large datasets using the fill handle or copy paste operations will work efficiently.

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