I will show you how to subtract massive columns of numerical data from each other. It is a super simple 3-step process that I will walk you through.
Let’s jump right in!
Step #1: Select the Cell
First, you must select the “cell” where you want the subtraction results to appear. I recommended that you select the topmost cell within the column if you plan to subtract entire columns from each other.
Step #2: Subtract
There are two methods for how you can subtract in Google Sheets:
“=Cell 1-Cell 2” and “=MINUS(Cell 1,Cell 2)”
Method A: “=Minus
(Cell 1,Cell 2)”
Now, simply use the “=MINUS()” function. Then, you will type in the cell coordinates of the numbers. It is important that you separate these coordinates with a comma and close the parentheses.
From there, simply hit enter and your result should appear in the cell that you selected in Step #1.
Method B: “=Cell 1-Cell 2”
Alternatively, you could choose to use the “=Cell 1 – Cell 2” function. Some people prefer to use this function because it is more natural.
From there, simply hit enter and your result should appear in the cell that you selected in Step #1.
Step #3: Click and Drag
Once you hit enter, you will be able to fill out the rest of the column automatically. Simply click and drag the topmost product cell from the top to bottom row.
The function will be applied to each new cell as you drag down the column.
And there you have it; that is how you subtract columns in Google Sheets.
