Excel or Google Sheets spreadsheets come before the formulae. They automatically process, analyze, and compute. Of all the arithmetic functions used, one of the most common operations used is most probably multiplication.
You’ll be wondering what to do as a symbol when you are performing multiplication in an Excel spreadsheet. Although yes, we do have our “×” when we are performing straightforward math language, we do have another symbol for the same purpose when we are working with spreadsheets. That little but convenient fact will simplify your life and bug-free.
Here we will inform you exactly which symbol to use when multiplication is applied inside a formula in a spreadsheet, how to apply it, and provide some examples so that it would be easy for you to practice.
What Is a Spreadsheet Formula
An Excel formula is the set of words you put into a cell so it will calculate. You start any formula by putting an equal sign (=) in and thus informing the computer that you are putting in a formula, not text.
For instance:
=2+3 = 5.
You can use formulas in any arithmetic operation type such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The spreadsheet will instantly give you the result on your value inputs or cell references.
The Symbol to Use in Multiplication When Typing Spreadsheet Formula
When writing formulae in spreadsheet programs such as Google Sheets and Excel, one uses an asterisk (*) as your symbol for multiplication.
You therefore have to replace the traditional “×” symbol with *.
Example:
=5*4 is 20.
Easy and quick to type on any keyboard because the asterisk (*) has been assigned on key 8 (Shift + 8).
Why an Asterisk (*) and not “×”
Why spreadsheet programs use the asterisk symbol:
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The × sign appears on the majority of computer keyboards.
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Asterisk (*) as a default multiplication symbol of computer programming languages.
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It is accessible to any programming utility and any spreadsheet application.
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is not used where the use of the letter “x” is done or variable names in formulas.
Thus when you enter formulas, the system can be able to interpret and comprehend them without getting confused.
Simple Multiplication Example
We will apply simple examples in order for us to know how the asterisk sign works in spreadsheets when doing multiplication.
It’s exactly the same as normal multiplication in math but you use * instead of ×.
Multiplying Cell References
You don’t multiply numbers in a spreadsheet alone. You can also multiply other cells.
Example:
To multiply cell A1 and B1:
Formula: =A1*B1
Result: 50
It’s convenient because if you then change A1 to 6 or B1 to 12, the result will differ too. That is the real power of spreadsheet formulae.
Multiplying Lots of Cells
You can multiply many cells simultaneously.
Example:
=A1B1C1
If A1 = 2, B1 = 3, and C1 = 4, then the result is 2×3×4 = 24.
You can multiply any number:
=A1B1C1D1E1
Because it is used so much in business, learning, or maths.
Multiplying a Range of Cells
If you want to multiply all the numbers in a range. Then you can’t use =A1:A5. As it will add numbers.
Or use the PRODUCT function as a substitute.
Example:
=PRODUCT(A1:A5)
It will automatically multiply all the numbers.
It is the quickest method of multiplying big numbers.
Multiplying Different Numbers with a Constant Number
Sometimes you have to multiply different numbers with some constant number.
If A1 = 5, A2 = 10, A3 = 15. And you want to multiply all three with 10:
Formula for all cells:
=A110 → 50
=A210 → 100
=A3*10 → 150
Or else in the top-left corner of the cell so that it is auto-filled to other cells.
Using Multiplication in Real-Life Scenario
Following are some examples of usage of multiplication in day-to-day life use in spreadsheets:
Multiplication brings all such routine-type day-to-day activity to easy and accurate steps.
Using Multiplication with Other Operators
Addition, division or subtraction can be achieved through multiplication in an expression.
Example:
=(A1B1)+(C1D1)
The spreadsheet multiplies A1 and B1, C1 and D1. And add them together.
Order of Operations
Spreadsheets follow the BODMAS rule. It is Brackets, Orders, Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction.
Multiply first, then add or subtract.
Example:
=5+2*3 → 11 (and not 21, because first multiply).
Reverse order, put numbers in brackets:
=(5+2)*3 → 21.
Multiplying in Google Sheets
Same as Excel.
You can type:
=A1*B1 or =PRODUCT(A1:A5)
Shortcuts available too:
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Press = to begin formula.
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Press * to multiply.
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Press Enter to calculate.
Errors and Solutions
These small adjustments will keep your maths tidy every time.
Short Cut to Key the Multiplication Sign
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Windows: Shift + 8 (to type *)
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Mac: Shift + 8 (same key)
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Mobile: Press open symbols keyboard and type *
You don’t key special character or font code; it’s used throughout Excel, Sheets, or even calculators.
Also Read: Divide Symbol on Keyboard: What Does it Say, How to Perform It, and How to Type It Easy
Example Practice
Practice with different numbers to get used to typing * in formula.
Multiplication Using Cell Ranges in Reports
You multiplied some columns and summed amounts in big spreadsheets.
Example:
Then sum up all the results with:
=SUM(D2:D4) → 800.
This is how addition and multiplication will coexist peacefully with one another in spreadsheet reports.
When to Use PRODUCT Function Instead of *
Use PRODUCT() when:
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You are multiplying one or more cells or an array.
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You desire a clean, tidy formula.
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You are working with sets of cells with different variables.
Use * wherever:
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You are working with only 2 or 3 numbers.
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You are working with other operations like addition or subtraction.
Both the formulae return the same result, although PRODUCT is more enjoyable to work with when working with large lists.
The asterisk “*” is the Excel, Google Sheets, and other spreadsheet software’s multiplication operator, not the “×” of regular plain vanilla math syntax. It is quick, handy, and cross-platform in Excel, Google Sheets, and the other spreadsheet software.
You may use it right away between cell references or numbers, =A1*B1, or use the PRODUCT function on a range of numbers. Having this symbol handy makes spreadsheet multiplication a breeze.
They all need multiplication: school and business reports, finance, accounting, data analysis. Utilize it in advance so your work shall be neater and faster.