How to Use COUNTIF in Excel
Last updated: 2026-09-06
⚡ Quick Answer
COUNTIF counts the number of cells within a range that meet a single criteria condition.
=COUNTIF(A2:A100, "Active")📊 Visual Demo
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fx =COUNTIF(A2:A100, "Active")
| A | B | C | D | E | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Status Column | "Active" | =COUNTIF(A:A, "Active") | 42 Records |
| 2 | 2 | Score Column | >80 | =COUNTIF(B:B, ">80") | 15 Records |
| 3 | 3 | Audit | Checked | Verified | Count Complete |
🧠 Deep Dive
COUNTIF counts the number of cells within a range that meet a single criteria condition.
Key Insights
- SUMIF/COUNTIF take one criteria; SUMIFS take many.
- Expanding ranges create running totals.
Common Mistakes
- Mismatched range sizes in SUMIFS.
- Quoting numeric criteria cell references.
Pro Tips
- Make criteria ranges full columns.
- Test COUNTIFS first.
FAQ
What does this formula do in plain English?
COUNTIF counts the number of cells within a range that meet a single criteria condition.
Why is my formula not working?
Mismatched range sizes in SUMIFS.
Does this work in Google Sheets?
Yes, this syntax is fully compatible with Google Sheets.
What is the most common mistake?
Quoting numeric criteria cell references.
Related Guides
How to Use SUMIFS in ExcelHow to Use COUNTIFS in ExcelHow to Calculate Cumulative SumHow to Calculate Moving AverageExcel Error Hub
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