How to Apply Formulas to Entire Columns in Google Sheets

Working with large datasets in Google Sheets often requires applying the same formula to many cells. While you can copy and paste a formula to each cell, that becomes tedious fast. Luckily, Google Sheets provides several easy ways to apply a formula to an entire column.

In this comprehensive guide I’ll explain 5 simple methods to apply formulas to columns in Google Sheets

• Using the ARRAYFORMULA function
• Dragging the fill handle
• Using keyboard shortcuts
• Accepting the suggested autofill
• Double-clicking the fill handle

I’ll provide step-by-step instructions and examples for each method By the end, you’ll know how to quickly apply formulas to entire columns in Google Sheets Let’s get started!

Why Apply Formulas to Columns?

Applying the same formula to an entire column is useful for many reasons:

• Perform calculations on entire datasets: For example, calculating sales tax for a list of product prices.

• Standardize formatting: Applying formatting like UPPER or TRIM to text columns.

• Analyze trends and patterns: Applying analytical formulas like regressions or moving averages.

• Save time Copying formulas manually is tedious and error-prone.

The ability to apply a single formula to an entire column makes Google Sheets an incredibly powerful and flexible tool for data analysis.

Method 1: Use the ARRAYFORMULA Function

The easiest way to apply a formula to an entire column is with the ARRAYFORMULA function.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Type your formula into the first cell of the column. For example:

=A2&" "&B2

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + Enter (Mac). This wraps the formula in the ARRAYFORMULA function.

2. Press Enter. The formula instantly fills down the entire column.

The ARRAYFORMULA function tells Google Sheets to apply the formula to the entire column range.

This method is fast, simple, and works great for formulas that don’t contain cell references.

Method 2: Drag the Fill Handle

You can also use the fill handle to copy a formula down a column. The fill handle is the small blue square in the bottom-right corner of the selected cell.

Follow these steps:

1. Type your formula into the first cell and press Enter.

2. Hover over the fill handle until the cursor changes to a black cross.

3. Click and drag the fill handle down to the last row with data.

4. Release the mouse button.

This will copy the formula to all selected cells. The benefit of this method is you can visually select the range before applying the formula.

Method 3: Use Keyboard Shortcuts

For a hands-free approach, use these handy keyboard shortcuts:

Windows:

1. Select the column.
2. Type the formula in the first cell.
3. Press Ctrl + D to apply to the entire column.

Mac:

1. Select the column.
2. Type the formula in the first cell.
3. Press Command + D to apply to the entire column.

This method is fast and easy. The formula will apply to all existing and new rows added to the column.

Method 4: Accept the Suggested Autofill

Google Sheets can automatically suggest autofilling a formula down a column.

When you type a formula and press Enter, look for the pop-up prompt:

Click the blue tick mark to accept the suggested autofill range. Or simply press Enter again to confirm.

This method requires no extra steps. Just type your formula and accept the autofill suggestion.

Method 5: Double Click the Fill Handle

Here’s another shortcut to autofill formulas:

1. Type the formula in the first cell and press Enter

2. Double-click the fill handle.

This will instantly copy the formula down to the last row of the column.

However, this method only works if there is data in the column to the left. It relies on finding the last filled cell to determine the autofill range.

Tips for Applying Formulas to Columns

Keep these tips in mind when applying formulas across columns:

• Use absolute references ($A$1) to apply formulas without changing cell references.

• Delete empty rows to allow autofill to reach the full column range.

• Array formulas are fast but don’t allow you to delete part of the output range.

• Test new formulas on a small range before applying to large columns.

• Formulas will spill into adjacent blank columns unless you limit the range.

Examples of Formulas for Entire Columns

Here are some examples of handy formulas you can apply across columns:

• Add a new Full Name column from First and Last Name columns

  =A2&" "&B2

• Extract numbers only from alphanumeric strings

  =REGEXEXTRACT(A2,"d+")

• Format text columns as uppercase

  =UPPER(A2)

• Trim leading and trailing whitespace

  =TRIM(A2)

• Calculate a running balance from a transactions list

  =B2+C3

• Apply conditional formatting for top and bottom quartiles

  =QUARTILE(A$2:A,1)

The possibilities are endless! Apply these methods to simplify your workflow and manage large datasets in Google Sheets.

FAQs about Applying Formulas to Columns

Here are answers to some common questions about this topic:

How do I apply a formula to multiple columns?

Type the formula once, then use the autofill methods to apply it across multiple columns simultaneously.

What if I get the #REF error?

This means your formula references a deleted cell. Use absolute references like $A$1 instead.

Can I apply formulas to rows instead?

Yes! All the same methods work for applying formulas to entire rows.

What if autofill isn’t working correctly?

Make sure there are no gaps in the column data. Delete blank rows if needed.

How do I apply formulas without overwriting data?

Select the entire column before typing the formula to avoid overwriting. Or type it in a new column.

Recap and Next Steps

Here’s a quick recap of the 5 methods covered:

1. Use ARRAYFORMULA
2. Drag the fill handle
3. Keyboard shortcuts
4. Accept suggested autofill
5. Double-click fill handle

Next time you need to apply a formula across an entire column in Google Sheets, use one of these simple methods.

Check out my blog for more Google Sheets tips and tutorials. I cover formulas, charts, dashboards, and other advanced functionality. Subscribe below to get my latest guides sent right to your inbox.

And as always, feel free to contact me if you have any questions! I’m happy to help fellow spreadsheet enthusiasts master Google Sheets.