SUM is the spreadsheet equivalent of an open invite: it welcomes everything into the total, whether it belongs there or not.

Enter the formula "=sum (B2:E2)" in cell F2 to calculate the total sales. If you have entered quarterly data below row 2, select cell F2 and press "Ctrl-C" to copy the formula.

Choose "Sum" to create a balance formula that totals the selected columns and displays the total in your selected cell.

Microsoft Excel PivotTables turn data into meaningful information, but it's difficult to add grand total rows. Read on to learn how.

There are several reasons to use SUBTOTAL instead of SUM when inserting subtotals in your spreadsheet.