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Microsoft Excel - How to create Running Total
This document teaches users how to create a running total in Excel. A running total changes each time new data is added to a list.
To create a running head complete the following steps:
Step 1:
Select cell B9 and enter a simple SUM function.

Step 2:
Select cell C2 and enter the SUM function shown below.

Note: the first cell (B$2) in the range reference is a mixed reference. We fixed the reference to row 2 by adding $ symbol in front of the row number. The second cell (B2) in the range reference is a normal relative reference.
Step 3:
Select cell C2, click on the lower right of cell C2 and drag it down to cell C7.

Note: When we drag the formula down the mixed reference (B$2) stays the same, while the relative reference (B2)changes to B3, B4, B5 etc.
Step 4:
For example, take a look at the formula in cell C3.

Step 5:
For example, take a look at the formula cell C4.

Step 6:
At step 2, enter the IF function shown below (and drag it down to cell C7) to only display a cumulative sum if data has been entered.

Note: if cell B3 is not empty (<>means not equal to), the IF function in the cell C2 displays a cumulative sum else it displays an empty string.
Step 7:
Enter the sales in April.
