WD2000: SUM Formula Does Not Update Correctly

ID: Q212070

The information in this article applies to:

Microsoft Word 2000

SYMPTOMS

The SUM formula field may update incorrectly if text exists in a cell of a row or column when using one of the following predefined formula fields:

{ =SUM(LEFT) }

{ =SUM(RIGHT) }

{ =SUM(BELOW) }

{ =SUM(ABOVE) }

For example, in the following table

1

2

3

{ =SUM(LEFT) }

1

2

Text

{ =SUM(LEFT) }

1

Text

3

{ =SUM(LEFT) }

the calculation field result in the first and second rows updates correctly. However, if text is in a cell that splits the values that are being calculated, the calculation updates incorrectly. For example, the third row produces an incorrect result, as shown in the table below.

1

2

3

6

1

2

Text

3

1

Text

3

3

CAUSE

When the SUM function, using one of the predefined arguments (LEFT, RIGHT, ABOVE, or BELOW), is interrupted by a text-filled cell in the table, it performs the calculation up to that point. When the text-filled cell is immediately adjacent to the formula, the SUM function begins looking at the figures on the other side of the text.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, use either of the following methods.

Method 1: Specify a Range of Cells

Specify a range of cells in your formula, for example:


{=sum(a1:c1)}

Method 2: Specify a Series of Cells

Specify a series of cells in your formula, for example:


{=sum(a1,b1,c1)}

REFERENCES

For more information about about referencing cells in Word tables, click Microsoft Word Help on the Help menu, type referencing cells in a table in the Office Assistant or the Answer Wizard, and then click Search to view the topic.

Additional query words: formula expression incorrect calculate calculation

Keywords : kbdta kbfield kbformula wd2000
Version : WINDOWS:2000
Platform : WINDOWS
Issue type : kbprb