Using PRODUCT Function for Multiplication in Excel

Understanding the PRODUCT Function 

In simple terms, the PRODUCT function in Excel is a multiplication operation. It multiplies all selected values together and returns the product. For instance, in cells A1 and A2 containing numbers, use the formula: =PRODUCT(A1, A2)

Additionally, you can perform multiplication in Excel using the formula: =A1*A2.

When you need to multiply multiple cells together, utilize the PRODUCT function with the formula: =PRODUCT(A1:A3, C1:C3) or = A1*A2*A3*C1*C2*C3

In cases where you have to multiply several cells together, you can use the PRODUCT function with the formula: =PRODUCT(A1:A3, C1:C3) or =A1*A2*A3*C1*C2*C3.

Key features of the PRODUCT function in Excel include:

• Facilitates quick calculations on large datasets with minimal effort.
• Enables users to multiply multiple numbers without the hassle of selecting each individually.
• Works seamlessly with other Excel functions.

Formula for the PRODUCT function in Excel

Syntax: =PRODUCT(number1,number2,...)

Where:

• number 1 (Required): The first range or number you want to multiply.
• number 2 (Optional): Additional range or number for multiplication.

Note:

• For number 2, you can multiply up to 255 values.
• In case the values are references or arrays, multiplication is performed on the numbers within those references/arrays.
• Blank cells or text within the reference or array will be ignored.

Step 1: Navigate to the cell for multiplication, then input the function: =PRODUCT(2;4;3;5;3;9;1). Alternatively, select all cells containing numbers with: =PRODUCT().

Step 2: Press Enter and observe the returned result.

You can perform multiplication like this: =2*4*3*5*3*9*1. The result will match using the PRODUCT function.

Calculate the product for each column

Follow along with an example of calculating the product for each column using the PRODUCT function:

Step 1: In the multiplication cell, enter the formula: =PRODUCT(D2:D8). Use the mouse to select the column, but remember to exclude the header.

Step 2: Press Enter and check the returned result.

Multiplying Across Columns

The PRODUCT function effortlessly performs multiplication across multiple columns. Check out the illustration below:

• Step 1: Select the cells for multiplication and enter the following formula: =PRODUCT(C2:D2). Alternatively, sweep the mouse to select two cells at once.

• Step 2: Press Enter and observe the result.

When using the asterisk (*), you simply multiply the numbers in a column together as illustrated below.

Multiplying Combined with Functions like SUM, AVERAGE,...

Combining the PRODUCT function with other functions is trickier compared to the previous example. Let's analyze the following scenario together!

• Step 1: Select the cell for multiplication, input the PRODUCT function with the following formula: =PRODUCT(SUM(C2:D2);E2).

• Step 2: Press Enter and examine the returned result.

You can perform similar steps with the AVERAGE function.

Common Errors When Using the PRODUCT Function in Excel

In the following content, let's explore the common errors encountered while using the PRODUCT function. Subsequently, we'll discuss effective troubleshooting methods:

Error #DIV/0

The #DIV/0 error is the most common error that occurs frequently, affecting all functions.

The main cause is the data you selected for characters, text, and the PRODUCT function unable to perform the calculation.

Solution: Check the data and replace it with appropriate values.

Zero Display Error

The reason for the display of 0 in the PRODUCT function is the presence of characters, text, or empty cells within the numerical data range.

Solution: You can either modify or leave it as is, depending on the specific scenario. This error does not impact the returned result.

Here are details and examples of using the PRODUCT function in Excel that Mytour has compiled. We hope this article will assist you in your work, studies, and life. Don't forget to follow Mytour for more interesting and useful information about technology!