What it does
COUNTIF counts cells that meet one condition.
Syntax or pattern
=COUNTIF(range, criteria)5 practical examples
Count completed tasks
Count rows marked Done.
=COUNTIF(Tasks[Status],"Done")Simple status counting.
Count values above target
Count sales above 1000.
=COUNTIF(Sales[Amount],">1000")Comparison criteria go in quotes.
Count selected category
Use a category selected in a cell.
=COUNTIF(Products[Category],F2)Dynamic criteria make dashboards easier.
Count blanks
Count missing owner cells.
=COUNTIF(Tasks[Owner],"")Useful for data quality checks.
Count text containing a word
Count items that include “pro”.
=COUNTIF(Products[Name],"*pro*")Wildcards match partial text.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Selecting ranges with different sizes.
- Using text values where numbers are required.
- Forgetting how blanks and hidden rows are treated.
Related Excel examples
FAQ
Can this formula use Excel Tables?
Yes. Structured references often make summary formulas easier to read.
Here are some ideas for you
Optional resources that may help if you are learning formulas, building reports, or working in spreadsheets often.
- Excel formula booksSee ideas
Practice formulas with structured examples you can keep beside your desk.
- Excel shortcut guidesSee ideas
Build speed with keyboard shortcuts for selection, formatting and navigation.
- Numeric keypadsSee ideas
Helpful if you enter many numbers on a laptop or compact keyboard.
- External monitorsSee ideas
Useful for viewing large worksheets, formulas and reference tables side by side.
- Desk notebooksSee ideas
Sketch formula logic, report ideas and table structures before building.
- Laptop standsSee ideas
Make long spreadsheet sessions more comfortable and ergonomic.
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