=Sum(offset(A1,0,0,1,A2))
Assume A2 is the reference cell.

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Regards,
Tom Ogilvy

"Craig" wrote in message
...
I am trying to sum up a range of cells. the number of
cells that need to be summed up is detemined by a number
inputed into a reference cell. (this number could be
change) eg. range of cells a1,b1,c1,d1,e1 etc. reference
cell number is 3. therefore it should sum up a1,b1,c1.
I am using Excel 2002