When working with Google Sheets, it’s common to need to perform mathematical operations, including subtraction. While Google Sheets has a built-in function for addition, subtraction is not as straightforward. However, with a few simple steps, you can learn how to make Google Sheets subtract and perform calculations with ease.
Why is Subtracting in Google Sheets Important?
Subtracting in Google Sheets is crucial for various tasks, such as calculating differences, tracking changes, and creating budgets. Whether you’re a student, a business owner, or an individual, being able to subtract in Google Sheets can help you make informed decisions and stay organized. In this article, we’ll explore the steps to make Google Sheets subtract and provide practical examples to help you master this skill.
Overview of the Article
This article will cover the following topics:
- Understanding the basics of subtraction in Google Sheets
- Using the SUBTRACT function
- Creating a custom formula for subtraction
- Practical examples and scenarios
By the end of this article, you’ll be able to confidently subtract in Google Sheets and apply this skill to your everyday work or personal projects.
How To Make Google Sheets Subtract
Google Sheets is a powerful tool for data analysis and manipulation. One of the most common operations in data analysis is subtraction. In this article, we will explore how to make Google Sheets subtract two or more columns or cells.
Basic Subtraction
To perform basic subtraction in Google Sheets, you can use the minus (-) operator. Simply enter the formula =A1-B1, where A1 and B1 are the cells you want to subtract.
For example, if you want to subtract the value in cell B1 from the value in cell A1, you can enter the formula =A1-B1. The result will be displayed in the cell where you entered the formula. (See Also: How To Make Data Range Google Sheets)
Subtracting Multiple Columns
What if you want to subtract multiple columns? You can do this by using the minus (-) operator with multiple cells. For example, if you want to subtract the values in columns B, C, and D from the value in column A, you can enter the formula =A1-B1-C1-D1.
You can also use the SUMIFS function to subtract multiple columns. The syntax for this function is SUMIFS(range, criteria_range1, criteria1, [criteria_range2], [criteria2], …). For example, if you want to subtract the values in columns B, C, and D from the value in column A, where the value in column E is greater than 10, you can enter the formula =SUMIFS(A:A, B:B, B1, C:C, C1, D:D, D1) – SUMIFS(A:A, E:E, “>10”).
Subtracting Dates
What if you want to subtract dates? You can do this by using the DATE_SUB function. The syntax for this function is DATE_SUB(date, interval). For example, if you want to subtract 30 days from the date in cell A1, you can enter the formula =DATE_SUB(A1, 30).
You can also use the DAYS function to subtract dates. The syntax for this function is DAYS(date1, date2). For example, if you want to subtract the date in cell A1 from the date in cell B1, you can enter the formula =DAYS(B1, A1).
Subtracting Times
What if you want to subtract times? You can do this by using the TIME_SUB function. The syntax for this function is TIME_SUB(time, interval). For example, if you want to subtract 1 hour from the time in cell A1, you can enter the formula =TIME_SUB(A1, 1).
You can also use the TIME function to subtract times. The syntax for this function is TIME(hour, minute, second). For example, if you want to subtract 1 hour from the time in cell A1, you can enter the formula =TIME(HOUR(A1)-1, MINUTE(A1), SECOND(A1)). (See Also: How To Make A Rule On Google Sheets)
Recap
In this article, we have explored how to make Google Sheets subtract two or more columns or cells. We have also covered how to subtract dates and times. With these formulas and functions, you can perform complex data analysis and manipulation in Google Sheets.
Key Points
- Use the minus (-) operator to perform basic subtraction in Google Sheets.
- Use the SUMIFS function to subtract multiple columns.
- Use the DATE_SUB function to subtract dates.
- Use the DAYS function to subtract dates.
- Use the TIME_SUB function to subtract times.
- Use the TIME function to subtract times.
By following these formulas and functions, you can make Google Sheets subtract and perform complex data analysis and manipulation.
Here are five FAQs related to “How To Make Google Sheets Subtract”:
Google Sheets Subtraction FAQs
What is the basic formula for subtraction in Google Sheets?
The basic formula for subtraction in Google Sheets is =B2-A2, where B2 is the value you want to subtract from, and A2 is the value you want to subtract. You can also use the minus sign (-) to subtract values, for example, =B2-B3.
How do I subtract multiple values in Google Sheets?
To subtract multiple values in Google Sheets, you can use the SUMIFS function with a negative value. For example, =SUMIFS(A:A, A:A, “>10”)-SUMIFS(A:A, A:A, “<5") will subtract all values in column A that are greater than 10 from all values that are less than 5.
Can I subtract a range of cells in Google Sheets?
Yes, you can subtract a range of cells in Google Sheets by using the minus sign (-) and specifying the range. For example, =B2-B3:B5 will subtract the values in cells B3 to B5 from the value in cell B2.
How do I subtract a value from a cell reference in Google Sheets?
To subtract a value from a cell reference in Google Sheets, you can use the minus sign (-) and specify the cell reference. For example, =A2-10 will subtract 10 from the value in cell A2.
Can I use subtraction in Google Sheets with dates?
Yes, you can use subtraction in Google Sheets with dates. The date functions in Google Sheets, such as TODAY() and NOW(), can be used with the minus sign (-) to calculate the difference between two dates. For example, =TODAY()-DATE(2022, 1, 1) will calculate the number of days since January 1, 2022.
Let me know if you need any further assistance!