Excel formula: 3D sum multiple worksheets

Generic formula

=SUM(Sheet1:Sheet3!A1)

Explanation

To sum the same range in one or more sheets, you can use the SUM formula with a special syntax called a "3d reference".

In the example shown, the formula in D6 is:

=SUM(Week1:Week5!D6)

How this formula works

The syntax for referencing a range of sheets is a built-in feature and works a bit like a reference to a range of cells. For example

Sheet1:Sheet3!A1

Means: cell A1 from Sheet1 to Sheet3.

In the example shown:

=SUM(Week1:Week5!D6)

Will sum cell D6 from Week1 to Week5, equivalent to:

=SUM(Week1!D6,Week2!D6,Week3!D6,Week4!D6,Week5!D6)

In this workbook, the sheets Week1 through Week 6 all look exactly like this:

Week1 through Week6 all have the same structure

Other examples

You can use 3D references in other formulas as well. For example, the formula in E6 averages D6 like this:

=AVERAGE(Week1:Week5!D6)

Author

Dave Bruns

Related formulas

3D SUMIF for multiple worksheets

To conditionally sum identical ranges that exist in separate worksheets, all in one formula, you can use the SUMIF function with INDIRECT , wrapped in SUMPRODUCT . In the example shown, the formula looks like this: = SUMPRODUCT ( SUMIF ( INDIRECT...

Related functions

Excel SUM Function

The Excel SUM function returns the sum of values supplied. These values can be numbers, cell references, ranges, arrays, and constants, in any combination. SUM can handle up to 255 individual arguments.

Excel Formula Training

Formulas are the key to getting things done in Excel. In this accelerated training, you'll learn how to use formulas to manipulate text, work with dates and times, lookup values with VLOOKUP and INDEX & MATCH, count and sum with criteria, dynamically rank values, and create dynamic ranges. You'll also learn how to troubleshoot, trace errors, and fix problems. Instant access. See details here.