4/26/2025

how to combine column header and arrayformula

IN SUMMARY

To combine a column header with an ArrayFormula in Google Sheets, you can wrap the formula expression in curly brackets and add the header text in quotes before the formula, separated by a semicolon. This allows you to display the header and the formula result in the same cell.

Understanding ArrayFormulas

ArrayFormulas are powerful functions that allow you to perform calculations across an entire range of cells simultaneously, rather than copying and pasting the same formula into each cell. They can save time and reduce manual effort, especially when working with large datasets.

The basic syntax for an ArrayFormula is: =ArrayFormula(formula_expression). The formula_expression is the calculation or operation you want to perform across the specified range of cells. ArrayFormulas can be combined with other functions, such as SUM, IF, LEN, and more, to create complex calculations.

One common issue with ArrayFormulas is that they can return results for blank cells, which can clutter your data. To avoid this, you can use the IF and LEN functions to check for blank cells and exclude them from the calculation. For example: =ArrayFormula(IF(LEN(A2:A)>0, formula_expression, ""))

Combining Column Header and ArrayFormula

To combine a column header with an ArrayFormula, use the following syntax: ={"Header Text";ArrayFormula(formula_expression)}. Replace "Header Text" with your desired column header, and formula_expression with your ArrayFormula calculation.

Once you have constructed the combined header and ArrayFormula, you can place it in the first cell of the column where you want the calculation to be performed. The header text will be displayed in that cell, and the ArrayFormula results will populate the cells below.

Combining the column header and ArrayFormula in a single cell can make your spreadsheet more organized and easier to read. It also ensures that the header and formula are always aligned, even if new data is added or removed from the column.

Examples and Use Cases

To calculate the total income for delivered items per product, you can use an ArrayFormula that multiplies the price per unit and the number of delivered items: ={"Total Income";ArrayFormula(IF(LEN(B2:B)>0, B2:B*E2:E, ""))}

To identify which items need to be ordered based on a stock threshold, you can use an ArrayFormula with nested IF statements: ={"Order More";ArrayFormula(IF(LEN(C2:C)>0, IF(C2:C<10, "Order", "No"), ""))}

You can use ArrayFormulas to combine text and numbers, such as concatenating first and last names: ={"Full Name";ArrayFormula(IF(LEN(A2:A)>0, A2:A & " " & B2:B, ""))}

Want to automate your busy work in Google Sheets with AI?

Videos