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How to count cells with text in Excel and Google Sheets
Excel & Google Sheets
=COUNTIF(A2:A100, "*")Try it with your data
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Step by step
- 1Pick a cell for the count.
- 2Enter =COUNTIF(A2:A100, "*") — the asterisk matches any text.
- 3Only cells containing text are counted; numbers and blanks are skipped.
Tips
- To count cells containing a specific word, use "*word*", e.g. =COUNTIF(A:A, "*paid*").
- To count numbers instead of text, use COUNT; for everything non-blank, use COUNTA.
Need it for your exact data?
Describe your columns in plain English and get the precise formula for your sheet, with the right Excel or Sheets syntax.
Frequently asked
Why does my COUNTIF count numbers too?
The "*" wildcard only matches text. If numbers are being counted, they are likely stored as text — check the cell format.