How To Use SUMIF In Google Sheets

How to Use SUMIF in Google Sheets

Introduction to SUMIF

The SUMIF function in Google Sheets returns a conditional sum across a range based on a single criterion. It's useful for summing values that meet specific conditions.

Syntax of SUMIF

The syntax for SUMIF is SUMIF(criteria_column, criterion, [sum_column]). The first parameter, criteria_column, is required and represents the range to test. The second parameter, criterion, is the pattern or test to apply and is also required. The third parameter, sum_column, is optional and represents the range to sum if it's different from criteria_column.

How to Use SUMIF

To use the SUMIF function, specify the range to test, the criterion to test against, and optionally, the range to sum if different from the test range. For example, to sum values greater than 20 in range A1:A10, use the formula =SUMIF(A1:A10, ">20").

If the sum range differs from the test range, use the formula =SUMIF(A1:A10, "Paid", B1:B10) to sum values in B1:B10 when corresponding cells in A1:A10 contain "Paid".

Using SUMIF with Different Ranges

The sum range can be different from the test range. However, both ranges must be the same size, or the function will throw an error. For instance, =SUMIF(table_name!price, ">5", table_name!inventory) returns a conditional sum of table_name!inventory where table_name!price is greater than 5.

Troubleshooting SUMIF

If SUMIF is not working, ensure that both the criteria range and the sum range are of the same size. Mismatched ranges are a common cause of errors. Also, consider using the DSUM function if multiple criteria need to be applied.

SUMIF vs. SUMIFS

SUMIF is designed for single-criterion summing, while SUMIFS handles multiple criteria using AND logic. For OR logic with multiple criteria, nest SUMIF with ARRAYFORMULA. SUMIF can also sum cells with specific characters using wildcards but does not support summing cells by color unless used with Google Sheets Script editor.

Practical Examples

Examples of SUMIF usage include:

Use these examples and guidelines to make the most of the SUMIF function in Google Sheets for efficient data analysis.

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