You can add a number to each cell in Excel using a simple formula. Here's how:
Using the SUM Function
- Select the cell where you want the result to appear.
- Type the equal sign (=), followed by the SUM function.
- Enter the cell reference of the first cell you want to add the number to, followed by a plus sign (+).
- Type the number you want to add.
- Close the parentheses and press Enter.
For example, if you want to add 5 to each cell in the range A1:A10, you would use the following formula:
=SUM(A1:A10 + 5)
Using the AutoFill Feature
- Select the cell containing the first value.
- Type the number you want to add to the cell value.
- Press Enter.
- Select the cell with the result.
- Hover your mouse over the bottom-right corner of the cell until a small black cross appears.
- Drag the cross down to the last cell you want to apply the addition to.
Practical Insights
- Using Absolute References: To prevent the number from changing when you drag the formula down, use an absolute reference by placing a dollar sign ($) before the column and row letters. For example,
=SUM(A1:A10 + $5)
. - Adding a Constant Value: If you want to add a constant value to each cell, you can simply type the number directly into the formula. For example,
=A1 + 5
.
Examples
-
Adding 10 to Each Cell in Range A1:A5:
- Formula:
=SUM(A1:A5 + 10)
- Result: Each cell in the range A1:A5 will have its value increased by 10.
- Formula:
-
Adding 5 to Each Cell in Range B2:B10:
- Formula:
=SUM(B2:B10 + 5)
- Result: Each cell in the range B2:B10 will have its value increased by 5.
- Formula: