I've used the SUM command for all my life. So I know how to input the
syntax. I recieved a file from another person and I'm trying to add some
math. 2 things happen...

1) Enter sum cells A1:A3 and it doesn't add. Just puts a zero in the cell.
2) Enter sum cells d1:d3 and the text "=sum(d1:d3)" is a fixed in the cell.

How do I correct these oddities??

Your cells are text.
Format as General or Number **and re-enter** (F2, ENTER)
If there are many "numbers":
Format an empty cell as Number. Enter the number 1. Edit|Copy. Select your "numbers". Edit|Paste Special, check Multiply.

--
Kind regards,

Niek Otten
Microsoft MVP - Excel


"Craig" wrote in message ...
| I've used the SUM command for all my life. So I know how to input the
| syntax. I recieved a file from another person and I'm trying to add some
| math. 2 things happen...
|
| 1) Enter sum cells A1:A3 and it doesn't add. Just puts a zero in the cell.
| 2) Enter sum cells d1:d3 and the text "=sum(d1:d3)" is a fixed in the cell.
|
| How do I correct these oddities??