I’m trying to figure out how to update a cell in Google Sheets by combining its existing value with data from another cell. For instance, I want to make C1 equal to its current value plus whatever is in C2. I know this would be easy in Java or C#, but I’m new to spreadsheets and can’t find the right way to do it.
I tried saving the original cell data elsewhere and using that for calculations, but when the source cell changes, everything gets messed up. How can I make this work without losing data when cells are updated?
Any help would be great. I’m struggling to find the right terms to search for this problem online.
I’ve encountered this issue before, and there’s a neat trick you can use. Instead of trying to modify the cell directly, create a separate column for cumulative values. Let’s say your original data is in column A, and you want to add values from column B.
In C1, use this formula: =A1+B1
In C2, use: =C1+B2
This way, C1 will always be A1+B1, and C2 will add B2 to the result of C1. You can drag this formula down the column, and it’ll keep adding the values cumulatively.
This approach keeps your original data intact in column A, shows the additions in column B, and gives you the running total in column C. It’s more maintainable and less prone to errors than trying to modify cells directly.
You can achieve this in Google Sheets using a formula that references the cell itself. The key is to use the INDIRECT function. Here’s how you can do it:
In cell C1, enter the formula: =INDIRECT(“C1”) + C2
This formula tells the cell to add its own current value (referenced by INDIRECT(“C1”)) to the value in C2. The INDIRECT function allows the cell to reference itself without creating a circular reference error.
Remember to manually enter an initial value in C1 before applying this formula. Once set up, any changes to C2 will automatically update C1 by adding to its existing value.
This method is quite versatile and can be adapted for various calculations involving a cell’s current value and data from other cells.