What it does
COUNT counts cells that contain numbers.
Syntax or pattern
=COUNT(value1, [value2], ...)✅
5 practical examples
1
Count numeric entries
Count how many cells contain numbers.
=COUNT(B2:B100)Text and blanks are ignored.
2
Count dates
Count date values in a range.
=COUNT(A2:A100)Excel stores dates as numbers, so COUNT counts them.
3
Count scores entered
Count completed score cells.
=COUNT(Tests[Score])Useful for completion checks.
4
Count several ranges
Count numeric entries across multiple columns.
=COUNT(B2:B100,D2:D100)Commas let you count multiple areas.
5
Count numbers after filtering
Use SUBTOTAL for visible numeric rows.
=SUBTOTAL(102,B2:B100)Function 102 counts visible numeric values.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Selecting ranges with different sizes.
- Using text values where numbers are required.
- Forgetting how blanks and hidden rows are treated.
Related Excel examples
FAQ
Can this formula use Excel Tables?
Yes. Structured references often make summary formulas easier to read.