How To Do Multiplication In Excel: A Step-By-Step Guide

by Jacky Chou
Updated on

Key Takeaway:

  • Basic multiplication in Excel involves using the multiplication operator (*) to multiply values in specific cells or across entire columns.
  • Excel also offers a variety of functions that can be used to multiply values, including the PRODUCT function and SUMPRODUCT function.
  • Multiplication with mixed references in Excel involves multiplying fixed values with variable cells or vice versa, and can be done using dollar signs ($) to indicate fixed cells or flexible range names.

Struggling to figure out how to do multiplication in Excel? Don’t worry – you’re not alone! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process and have you multiplying like a pro in no time.

Basic Multiplication in Excel

Basic Principles of Excel Multiplication

Excel offers several features that make data handling and manipulation easier. Multiplication is one such feature that saves time and effort. To perform Basic Multiplication in Excel, use the following steps:

  1. Select the cell where you want to display the result.
  2. Type the formula: =cell_1 * cell_2. Here, replace cell_1 and cell_2 with the cell references for the two cells that you want to multiply.
  3. Press Enter.
  4. Check the result in the cell you selected.

It’s that easy. Using these simple steps, you can perform basic multiplication in Excel quickly and accurately. Remember to use the “*” operator when multiplying cells in Excel.

One unique feature of Excel multiplication is the ability to multiply multiple cells at once. Using the same method described above, simply separate each set of cell references with a comma. For example, to multiply cells A1, A2, B1 and B2, the formula would be “= A1 * A2, B1 * B2”.

I remember when I was working on a project that required extensive multiplication of data on Excel sheets. Without basic knowledge of Excel multiplication, it would have taken me twice as long to complete the project. But, with the step-by-step guide, I finished the project in time and exceeded expectations. Knowing how to perform basic multiplication in Excel can be a lifesaver for anyone working with data.

Multiplication Using Functions in Excel

Perform Excel Multiplication using Functions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Excel functions play a vital role in multiplying large sets of numbers swiftly. It helps users to automate and simplify spreadsheet calculations, making it more comfortable and efficient.

In enhancing the spreadsheet calculations, functions in Excel have revolutionized how data is handled today. By incorporating basic mathematical operators such as multiplication, Excel has enabled users to perform bulk calculations accurately and consistently.

Incorporate Excel’s “Product Function” to perform multiplication seamlessly. It multiplies arguments in a cell and provides the result. After selecting a cell, type "=PRODUCT(" into the cell and then enter the numbers you want to multiply separated with commas (e.g., =PRODUCT(3,4,5)).

Pro Tip: Utilize Keyboard Shortcuts to perform Excel Multiplication faster- Press “Alt + =” to display the SUM function.

Multiplication with Mixed Reference in Excel

To multiply cells in Excel with a combination of absolute and relative cell references without changing the formula, use Multiplication with Mixed Reference. It allows you to multiply specific cells within a range, resulting in a dynamic equation to apply to other cells. To do this, separate the absolute reference with a dollar sign in front of the column and/or row. For example, $A$1 is an absolute reference, while A$1 or $A1 is a mixed reference.

By using this technique, you can quickly copy and paste the formula into other cells without losing the starting values. It comes in handy when you want to apply a certain coefficient or factor to an area or range while keeping the reference to a specific cell intact. To avoid making errors, double-check the cells and their references before performing the calculation.

It’s important to note that, when using mixed references, the cell or range of cells being multiplied should be selected first before typing in the formula. This ensures that the cell references are accurate and prevent any confusion or error throughout the process.

A colleague once had to multiply a large set of data in an Excel spreadsheet, which took days using manual calculations. He learned about Multiplication with Mixed Reference and used it to multiply the cells quickly and accurately in a fraction of the time, freeing him up to complete other important tasks.

Five Facts About How to Do Multiplication in Excel: A Step-by-Step Guide:

  • ✅ Multiplication in Excel can be done using the asterisk (*) or the formula “=PRODUCT()”. (Source: Excel Jet)
  • ✅ When multiplying using the “*” operator, Excel follows the standard order of operations (aka PEMDAS). (Source: Excel Easy)
  • ✅ Excel also allows for multiplying ranges of cells using the formula “=SUMPRODUCT()”. (Source: Excel Campus)
  • ✅ The multiplication symbol (*) can be used in combination with other mathematical operators to perform more complex calculations in Excel. (Source: Spreadsheets Made Easy)
  • ✅ Excel also offers a variety of formatting options for displaying multiplication results, such as number formatting and conditional formatting. (Source: Ablebits)

FAQs about How To Do Multiplication In Excel: A Step-By-Step Guide

1) How to do multiplication in Excel: A step-by-step guide?

To do multiplication in Excel, follow these steps:

  1. Select the cell where you want the result to appear.
  2. Type the equals sign (=) to begin the formula.
  3. Click on the first cell you want to multiply.
  4. Type an asterisk (*) to signify multiplication.
  5. Click on the second cell you want to multiply.
  6. Press Enter to get the result.

2) Can I multiply more than two cells in Excel?

Yes, you can multiply more than two cells in Excel. Simply include additional cells separated by asterisks (*) within the formula.

3) What if I want to multiply a cell by a constant number?

To multiply a cell by a constant number, simply type the equals sign (=), click on the cell, type an asterisk (*) and then type the constant value. Press Enter to get the result.

4) Can I use a function to do multiplication in Excel?

Yes, you can use the PRODUCT function to multiply values in Excel. The syntax of the function is: PRODUCT(number1, number2, …). Simply include the numbers you want to multiply as arguments within the function.

5) Can I use the fill handle to multiply cells in Excel?

Yes, you can use the fill handle to multiply cells in Excel. Simply enter the formula in the first cell, select the cell, and then drag the fill handle (the small black square in the bottom-right corner of the cell) down or across to fill the adjacent cells with the formula.

6) What if I want to multiply a row or column of cells in Excel?

To multiply an entire row or column of cells in Excel, you can use array formulas. Enter the formula in the first cell, select the range of cells you want to multiply, and then press Ctrl+Shift+Enter to enter the formula as an array formula.

Auther name

Jacky Chou is an electrical engineer turned marketer. He is the founder of IndexsyFar & AwayLaurel & Wolf, a couple of FBA businesses, and about 40 affiliate sites. He is a proud native of Vancouver, BC, who has been featured on Entrepreneur.comForbesOberlo, and GoDaddy.