Excel Formula for Consolidating Data from Multiple Sheets

In Excel, to consolidate or pick data from all worksheets in a workbook, you can utilize the 3D Reference feature along with functions like SUM, AVERAGE, or create a more dynamic approach with INDIRECT and INDEX. Below are two methods to achieve this.

Method 1: Using 3D References

Formula Example

If you want to sum a specific cell (e.g., cell A1) across all sheets named from "Sheet1" to "Sheet3":

=SUM(Sheet1:Sheet3!A1)

Explanation

• SUM: This function adds up numbers.
• Sheet1:Sheet3: This specifies the range across the sheets. It indicates to Excel to consider all sheets from "Sheet1" to "Sheet3".
• !A1: This indicates that you are looking at cell A1 in each of those sheets.

Practical Illustration

Suppose you have:

• Sheet1: A1 = 10
• Sheet2: A1 = 15
• Sheet3: A1 = 5

Using the formula =SUM(Sheet1:Sheet3!A1) will return 30.

Method 2: Using INDIRECT Function for Dynamic Sheet Names

Formula Example

If you want to sum cell A1 but have the flexibility to reference sheets dynamically listed in another area (let's say the sheet names are in cells C1 to C3):

=SUM(INDIRECT(C1 & "!A1"), INDIRECT(C2 & "!A1"), INDIRECT(C3 & "!A1"))

Explanation

• INDIRECT: This function returns the reference specified by a text string.
• C1 & "!A1": This concatenates the sheet name from C1 with the cell reference A1.
• The formula will effectively refer to the specified cell across different sheets as defined in C1 to C3.

Practical Illustration

Assuming:

• C1 = "Sheet1"
• C2 = "Sheet2"
• C3 = "Sheet3" And earlier cell values:
• Sheet1!A1: 20
• Sheet2!A1: 30
• Sheet3!A1: 10

The formula =SUM(INDIRECT(C1 & "!A1"), INDIRECT(C2 & "!A1"), INDIRECT(C3 & "!A1")) will return 60.

Conclusion

These methods illustrate how to sum values from multiple spreadsheets. The first method is straightforward for a fixed range, while the second provides flexibility for dynamic references. Depending on your needs, you can choose the method that best suits your scenario. For more complex data consolidation techniques, consider exploring resources available on the Enterprise DNA Platform.