🧮 Google Sheets array formulas examples

Arrayformula Examples in Google Sheets

Apply one formula to a whole column or range. This page gives a clear pattern, five practical examples and common mistakes to avoid.

Updated 2026-06-125 practical examplesCopy-ready formulas

Syntax or pattern

Apply one formula to a whole column or range.

=ARRAYFORMULA(array_formula)
✍️

5 practical examples

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

💡 Useful resources

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 books

    Learn formulas, workflows and dashboards with structured examples.

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  • 📊
    Spreadsheet dashboard books

    Improve how you design trackers, summaries and reporting sheets.

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  • ⌨️
    Keyboard shortcut guides

    Build speed with navigation, editing and formatting shortcuts.

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  • 🔢
    Numeric keypads

    Useful if you enter numbers often on a laptop or compact keyboard.

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  • 🖥️
    External monitors

    Helpful for viewing data, formulas and dashboards side by side.

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  • 📒
    Desk notebooks

    Sketch formulas, tracker layouts and reporting ideas before building.

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