AutoSum

AutoSum is a feature in spreadsheet software that automatically inserts a formula to sum a range of adjacent cells. It is best known from Microsoft Excel, where the AutoSum button appears on the Home tab (Editing group) and is commonly activated with the keyboard shortcut Alt plus equals. When used, AutoSum analyzes the numbers directly above or to the left of the active cell and inserts a SUM formula for the contiguous range.

The convenience extends beyond SUM; the AutoSum control often offers a dropdown with other aggregate functions such as AVERAGE, COUNT, MAX, and MIN. Selecting one of these returns the corresponding total for the identified range. The feature assumes a block of numeric data without intervening blanks; if the selected data includes text, blanks, or noncontiguous cells, the behavior may vary and the user may need to adjust the range manually.

Cross-platform usage: AutoSum exists in major spreadsheet applications, including Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets, though the exact interface and shortcut keys differ. In practice, users rely on AutoSum for quick totals in budgets, inventories, and data summaries, making it a staple productivity tool in data work.

Limitations and tips: AutoSum automatically selects the contiguous range either above or to the left. To sum non-adjacent cells, or to include a wider range, users should edit the formula directly or reselect the desired range before invoking AutoSum. For recurring totals, converting data to a structured table can help maintain dynamic references.