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DSUM Function

Excel 2007+

Summary

The Excel DSUM function calculates the sum of values in a specified field from a database range that meet defined criteria. It's a powerful database function designed for summarizing numeric data based on multiple conditions without needing complex array formulas.

Syntax

DSUM(database, field, criteria)

Parameters

Parameter	Type	Required	Description
database	`Range`	Yes	Full database range including column headers (first row must contain field labels)
field	`Text/Number`	Yes	Field name in double quotes or column position number (1-based index)
criteria	`Range`	Yes	Criteria range with identical headers and filter conditions underneath

Using the DSUM Function

DSUM transforms your Excel table into a database, allowing you to sum specific numeric columns based on flexible criteria. Perfect for sales reports, inventory summaries, and financial analysis where you need conditional totals across large datasets.

Common DSUM Examples

Sum Apple Tree Profits

=DSUM(A5:E11,"Profit",A1:A2)

Sums Profit column for all Apple trees: $105 + $75 + $45 = $225

Multiple Criteria with Ranges

=DSUM(A5:E11,"Profit",A1:F3)

Sums profits for Apple trees 10-16 feet tall AND all Pear trees: $248

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, use numbers without quotes (1 for first column, 2 for second, etc.).

It needs matching column headers but can cover only relevant columns for your criteria.

Yes, use * for multiple characters and ? for single characters in text criteria.

Common Errors and Solutions

#VALUE! error

Cause: Field name doesn't exactly match database header

Solution: Check spelling, spaces, and case sensitivity in field reference

Incorrect sum result

Cause: Criteria range overlaps database or placed below list

Solution: Move criteria range away from database and ensure no overlap

#REF! error

Cause: Database or criteria ranges are invalid

Solution: Verify all range references are correct and accessible

Notes

First row of database MUST contain column labels
Criteria range must have at least one header and one condition row
Blank criteria row sums entire column
Criteria can use >, <, =, <>, >=, <= operators
Avoid placing criteria below database to prevent data insertion issues

Compatibility

Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365

Not available in:

Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+