How to Divide in Google Sheets (Numbers, Cells, or Columns)

Google Sheets has become the preferred spreadsheet tool for many people. It offers a range of features, is free, and makes collaboration a breeze. From simple data record-keeping to complex calculations like weighted averages or division, Google Sheets has you covered.

In this article, we will explore different methods for dividing in Google Sheets and equip you with the skills to tackle any division task effortlessly.

How to Divide in Google Sheets

To divide numbers in Google Sheets, there are two primary approaches – using the inbuilt division formula or the divide operator. Let’s take a look at both methods:

Using the Division Formula

Google Sheets provides a built-in division function called the DIVIDE function. This function allows you to divide two numbers or numbers stored in cells.

The syntax for the DIVIDE function is as follows: =DIVIDE(dividend, divisor)

To use the DIVIDE function, follow these steps:

1. Click on the cell where you want the result to appear.
2. Type =DIVIDE and select it from the suggestions.
3. Click on the cell containing the value you want to divide (dividend).
4. Add a comma.
5. Click on the cell containing the value you want to divide by (divisor).
6. Press Enter.

Using cell references in the formula makes it dynamic. If you change the values in the referenced cells, the formula will automatically update.

You can also use hard-coded values in the formula. For example, you can use =DIVIDE(1200,15) to divide 1200 by 15.

Using the Divide Operator

Another efficient way to divide numbers in Google Sheets is by using the divide operator – the forward slash (/).

To divide using the divide operator, follow these steps:

1. Click on the cell where you want the result to appear.
2. Type an equal sign.
3. Click on the cell containing the value you want to divide (or type the number to be divided).
4. Add a forward slash (/).
5. Click on the cell containing the value you want to divide by.
6. Press Enter.

You can also directly divide numbers without using cell references. For example, =1200/15 will divide 1200 by 15.

Dividing Two Columns in Google Sheets

Google Sheets is a powerful tool for dividing multiple numbers into columns quickly. This comes in handy when dealing with large datasets.

To divide two columns in Google Sheets, follow these steps:

1. Click on the first empty cell in the column where you want the results.
2. Type an equal sign, then type ArrayFormula and select it from the suggestions.
3. Select the column with the values you want to divide.
4. Add a forward slash (/).
5. Select the column with the values you want to divide by.
6. Press Enter.

Using the ArrayFormula ensures that the division is applied to all the corresponding cells in the column.

Division Symbol and Error Handling

In Google Sheets, the division symbol is the forward slash (/). You can use this symbol to divide numbers in your formulas.

Sometimes, you may encounter the #DIV/0! error, which occurs when you divide a number by zero or use a blank cell reference. Ensure the divisor is not zero to avoid this error.

Wrapping Up

Mastering division in Google Sheets opens up a world of possibilities for data analysis and calculations. Whether you want to divide individual numbers, cells, or entire columns, Google Sheets provides multiple methods to meet your needs.

We hope this tutorial has been helpful to you. Remember, if you ever need any assistance with Google Sheets or have any other questions, make sure to check out Mr Reviews for more in-depth guides.

Happy dividing!