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adding numbers into a cell

DanB 0 Reputation points
2026-02-24T21:32:31.7333333+00:00

How do I copy a number from a cell and add it into a number already existing in a different cell? Control c/v no longer works. using the "+" no longer works.

Microsoft 365 and Office | Excel | For business | Windows
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  1. Q&A Assist
    2026-02-24T21:51:16.87+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    To add a number from one cell to a number in another cell in Excel, you can use a formula instead of relying on copy and paste. Here’s how to do it:

    1. Identify the Cells: Determine the cell that contains the number you want to copy (for example, cell A1) and the cell where you want to add this number (for example, cell B1).
    2. Use a Formula: In the cell where you want to see the result (let's say cell C1), enter the following formula: =A1 + B1 This formula will add the value from cell A1 to the value in cell B1.
    3. Press Enter: After entering the formula, press Enter. Cell C1 will now display the sum of the numbers from A1 and B1.

    If you want to keep the original values unchanged and just display the result in another cell, this method is effective. If you need to replace one of the original values, you can copy the result from C1 and use "Paste Values" to paste it back into either A1 or B1, ensuring that only the number is copied without the formula.

    If you're having trouble with Control C/V or the + operator, check to make sure that your Excel application is working properly and that there are no issues with your keyboard or Excel settings.

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  2. Hendrix-C 12,520 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-02-24T21:48:20.8866667+00:00

    Hi @DanB,

    Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.

    Please notify if I have misunderstood your question. Based on your sharing, you want to copy a number from a cell (e.g. number 10 in A1), then add it into an existing number (e.g. number 5 in B1). As a result, the value in cell B1 now becomes 10+5 = 15.

    To do this, you can use Paste Special: copy cell A1 > select cell B1 > right click and select Paste Special > under Operation select Add > OK.

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    Hope this will help. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to reach out again on this post so I can continue to support you.  

    Thank you for your patience and understanding. Looking forward to your response.


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