How to multiply in Excel: numbers, cells, entire columns

This tutorial demonstrates various methods for performing multiplication in Excel, leveraging both the multiplication symbol and built-in functions. We'll cover multiplying numbers, cells, columns, and rows, as well as incorporating multiplication into more complex calculations.

• Multiplying in Excel using the Multiplication Symbol
  • Multiplying Numbers
  • Multiplying Cells
  • Multiplying One Column by Another
  • Multiplying Two Rows
• Using the PRODUCT Function for Multiplication
• Multiplying a Cell by a Percentage
• Multiplying a Column by a Number
• Combining Multiplication and Summation
• Multiplication within Array Formulas
• Streamlining Calculations in Excel

Multiplication with the Asterisk Operator

The simplest method involves the asterisk (*) as the multiplication operator. This approach efficiently handles numbers, individual cells, and entire columns or rows.

Multiplying Numbers:

Begin by typing an equals sign (=) in a cell, followed by the numbers to be multiplied, separated by asterisks. For example: =2*5

Excel supports multiple arithmetic operations within a single formula, adhering to the standard order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS).

Multiplying Cells:

Replace numbers with cell references to multiply cell values. For instance, to multiply A2 and B2: =A2*B2. Multiplying multiple cells is achieved by adding more references, separated by asterisks: =A2*B2*C2.

Multiplying Columns:

Enter the multiplication formula (=A2*B2, for example) in the topmost cell of the result column. Double-click the small square at the bottom-right corner of the cell to automatically fill the formula down the column. Relative cell references adjust automatically for each row.

Multiplying Rows:

While less common, row multiplication is straightforward. Enter the formula (=B1*B2 for example) in the leftmost cell of the result row. Drag the fill handle (the small square) to the right to copy the formula across the desired cells.

The PRODUCT Function

For multiplying multiple cells or ranges, the PRODUCT function offers a concise solution: PRODUCT(number1, [number2], ...) where arguments can be numbers, cells, or ranges. For example: =PRODUCT(A2:C2) or =PRODUCT(A2:C2,3).

Multiplying by Percentages

Multiplying by percentages is done directly within the formula: =50*10% (or =A1*10% for a cell reference). Alternatively, use the decimal equivalent: =50*0.1.

Multiplying a Column by a Number

To multiply a column by a constant, enter the constant in a separate cell (e.g., A2). Use absolute cell referencing (=$A$2) in your multiplication formula (e.g., =C2*$A$2) to prevent the reference from changing when copied down the column.

Combining Multiplication and Summation (SUMPRODUCT)

The SUMPRODUCT function efficiently handles multiplying and summing multiple pairs of values: =SUMPRODUCT(B2:B5,C2:C5).

Multiplication in Array Formulas

For more complex scenarios, embed multiplication within an array formula (entered with Ctrl Shift Enter). For example, =SUM(B2:B5*C2:C5) calculates the sum of products. Other functions like AVERAGE, MAX, and MIN can also be used with array formulas.

Streamlining Calculations with Add-ins

Add-ins can simplify calculations. Tools like the "Calculate" feature in the Ultimate Suite for Excel allow for quick multiplication and other operations with a few clicks.

This comprehensive guide provides various techniques for efficient multiplication in Excel, catering to different needs and skill levels.

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