Syntax or pattern
Apply one formula to a whole column or range.
=ARRAYFORMULA(array_formula)5 practical examples
Apply a total formula down a column
Calculate row totals automatically as new rows are added.
=ARRAYFORMULA(IF(A2:A="",,C2:C*D2:D))Adjust the ranges, criteria and sheet names to match your workbook.
Create full names
Join first and last names without copying formulas down.
=ARRAYFORMULA(IF(A2:A="",,A2:A&" "&B2:B))Adjust the ranges, criteria and sheet names to match your workbook.
Label overdue tasks
Create status labels for an entire task table.
=ARRAYFORMULA(IF(A2:A="",,IF(D2:D<TODAY(),"Overdue","Open")))Adjust the ranges, criteria and sheet names to match your workbook.
Clean imported text
Remove extra spaces across a whole imported column.
=ARRAYFORMULA(IF(A2:A="",,TRIM(A2:A)))Adjust the ranges, criteria and sheet names to match your workbook.
Convert values to percentages
Calculate ratios for every row in a data table.
=ARRAYFORMULA(IF(B2:B="",,B2:B/C2:C))Adjust the ranges, criteria and sheet names to match your workbook.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Putting manual values inside a spill output range.
- Using full-column ranges on very heavy sheets without need.
- Forgetting that one formula can fill many rows.
FAQ
What is this Google Sheets page for?
This page gives copy-ready examples for arrayformula examples so you can understand the pattern and adapt it to real spreadsheet work.
Can I copy these formulas directly?
Yes. Use the copy buttons, then adjust sheet names, ranges, criteria and column references for your own file.
Why does my formula return an error?
The most common causes are mismatched ranges, missing quotes around text criteria, blank source data, or references that do not match your sheet layout.
Here are some ideas for you
Optional resources that may help if you are learning Google Sheets, building trackers, creating dashboards or improving spreadsheet workflows.
- Google Sheets booksSee ideas
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- Spreadsheet dashboard booksSee ideas
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- Keyboard shortcut guidesSee ideas
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- Numeric keypadsSee ideas
Useful if you enter numbers often on a laptop or compact keyboard.
- External monitorsSee ideas
Helpful for viewing data, formulas and dashboards side by side.
- Desk notebooksSee ideas
Sketch formulas, tracker layouts and reporting ideas before building.
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