When using spreadsheets, efficient data management and organization are essential. Numbering rows in Google Sheets can significantly improve your productivity and make information more accessible, whether managing a project, keeping track of inventory, or conducting data analysis. One can quickly reference and organize data by adding serial numbers to the rows, making it simpler to identify and interact with certain entries.
This post will walk through the different ways to number rows in Google Sheets, including both manual and using formulas.
How to Number Rows in Google Sheets?
Two different methods can be used to number rows or to add serial numbers in Google Sheets:
Both methods are demonstrated with simple examples in the next sections.
Manual Method: Using the Fill Handle
By following the steps of this method, one can number the rows manually.
Step 1: Select the First Cell
First, select the cell from where the numbering of the rows is supposed to start:
Step 2: Enter the First Number
Type the first number in the selected cell from where the numbering is supposed to be started:
Step 3: Use the Fill Handle
Now drag the fill handle to the last cell till where the numbering is supposed to be inserted:
The numbers will be inserted in the th cell while you drag them:
The numbers are assigned to the selected rows manually by using the fill handle.
Method 2: Using the Functions
Another method to number the rows is by using the ROW() function. The ROW() function is used to find the exact number of the row, for example, we want to find the row number:
=ROW()
Press the ENTER key to display the results:
The row number has been displayed, now if we want to start from the “1” then we will subtract one from the row number using the function:
=ROW() - 1
Display the results by pressing the ENTER key:
Apply this formula to the next row and then drags the selection of the cells to autofill the remaining row number:
The row numbers have been assigned:
We can also use the SUM() Function to number the rows. We will find the row number and add one to it:
= SUM ( A1, 1 )
In the second row, use the function of SUM() as:
=SUM(A2, 1)
Now autofill the next rows by dragging the selection of the above two cells and the row numbers will be assigned:
By the above-mentioned methods, one can add the rows numbers easily.
Conclusion
To number rows in Google Sheets for adding serial numbers, either use the fill handle or the functions such as SUM() and ROW(). This post is used to explain the usage of all the mentioned methods for adding serial numbers in Google Sheets.
