=SUM(A1:A4)
of =a1+a2+a3+a4 if you like to type <grin
when you add a negative number it get subtracted
Think of 5+1+(-2) , 5+1 = 6, then add the negative of 2 giving 4

Your formula =SUM(A1:A2)-(A3:A4) gives this
First we get 105 - (-43)
Which evaluates to 105 + 43 which give 148
because the negative of a negative value is positive.


Think of + numbers has money in your pocket and - numbers as money you owe
The -(-$10) is money someone owes you!
best wishes
--
Bernard V Liengme
Microsoft Excel MVP
http://people.stfx.ca/bliengme
remove caps from email


"Marge" wrote in message
...
I know this is so simple but I'm drawing a blank. I'd appreciate any help
you can offer.

In a column I have 3 numbers to add and 2 numbers to subtract.....

65
+40
- 23
- 20

I've tried =SUM(A1:A2)-(A3:A4) but it doesn't work.

Thanks for your help.