Multiplying numbers in Excel is a basic but essential skill for anyone who works with spreadsheets. Whether you’re a student, a business analyst, or a data scientist, knowing how to use the multiply formula can save you time and improve your productivity. But don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. In just a few simple steps, you can be multiplying like a pro.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Use the Multiply Formula in Excel
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about what we’re trying to achieve here. Excel has a built-in function for multiplication, but sometimes you need to multiply multiple cells or a range of cells by a specific number. This tutorial will show you how to do just that.
Step 1: Select the Cell for the Result
Click on the cell where you want the result of the multiplication to appear.
This cell will be where the final product of your multiplication will be displayed. It can be anywhere on the spreadsheet, but it’s usually best to place it near the numbers you’re multiplying for easy reference.
Step 2: Type the Equal Sign
Begin the formula by typing an equal sign (=) into the selected cell.
The equal sign tells Excel that you’re about to enter a formula. Without it, Excel will treat your input as text or a number rather than a calculation.
Step 3: Click on the First Cell to Multiply
After the equal sign, click on the first cell you want to include in the multiplication.
This step tells Excel the first number it should use in the multiplication. Be sure to click the cell rather than typing the cell reference, as this helps prevent errors.
Step 4: Type the Multiplication Sign
Next, type the multiplication sign (*), which is usually Shift+8 on your keyboard.
This asterisk (*) is the symbol for multiplication in Excel. It’s crucial to use this symbol rather than an ‘x’ or any other character.
Step 5: Click on the Second Cell to Multiply
Now, click on the second cell you want to multiply.
If you’re only multiplying two cells, this will be your final number. If you’re multiplying more than two cells, you can keep adding multiplication signs and clicking on cells until you’ve included all the numbers you want to multiply.
Step 6: Press Enter
Once you’ve added all the cells you want to multiply, press Enter on your keyboard.
Pressing Enter will complete the formula and display the result in the cell you selected in Step 1. Congratulations, you’ve just multiplied cells in Excel!
After completing these steps, the result of your multiplication will be displayed in the cell you selected. If you’ve followed the steps correctly, the number should be the product of all the cells you included in the multiplication.
Tips: Excel Multiplication Formula
- Tip 1: To multiply a cell by a constant number, type the number instead of clicking on a second cell.
- Tip 2: Use the dollar sign ($) before a cell reference to make it an absolute reference if you want to copy the formula to other cells without changing the reference.
- Tip 3: If you’re multiplying more than two cells, you can also use the PRODUCT function, which multiplies all the numbers given as arguments.
- Tip 4: Double-check your cell references to make sure you’re multiplying the correct cells.
- Tip 5: Practice makes perfect! Try creating a sample spreadsheet to practice your multiplication skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I multiply multiple ranges of cells at once?
No, you can only multiply two cells or a cell and a number at a time. However, you can use the PRODUCT function to multiply multiple numbers.
What if I need to multiply an entire column by a number?
To multiply an entire column by a number, you can use the copy and paste feature or drag the fill handle down after writing the formula in the first cell.
Can I use the multiply formula with decimal numbers?
Yes, Excel can handle decimal numbers in multiplication just as well as whole numbers.
How do I multiply a row of numbers by a column of numbers?
To multiply a row by a column, you’ll need to use an array formula or the SUMPRODUCT function.
What if my multiplication formula isn’t working?
Check to make sure you’re using the correct cell references and multiplication sign. Also, ensure that the cells you’re multiplying contain numbers and not text.
Summary
- Select the cell for the result.
- Type the equal sign.
- Click on the first cell to multiply.
- Type the multiplication sign.
- Click on the second cell to multiply.
- Press Enter.
Conclusion
Multiplying in Excel can seem intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a piece of cake! Remember, the key to mastering Excel is practice. Don’t be afraid to play around with different formulas and functions. The more you use Excel, the more comfortable you’ll become with its many features. And don’t forget, if you’re ever in doubt, there’s a wealth of resources available online to help you out. So go ahead, give it a try, and start multiplying in Excel today!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.