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How to count cells not equal to a value in Excel and Google Sheets
Topic:COUNTIF & COUNTIFSExcel & Google Sheets
=COUNTIF(A2:A5,"<>"&"Pending")✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| Status |
| Pending |
| Approved |
| Rejected |
| Approved |
=COUNTIF(A2:A5,"<>"&"Pending")→3
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Step by step
- 1Select the cell where you want the count to appear.
- 2Type =COUNTIF( then select your data range (e.g., A2:A100).
- 3For the criteria, type "<>" concatenated with the value to exclude, such as "<>"&"Pending" or simply "<>Pending".
- 4Close the parenthesis and press Enter to get the count of cells that do not equal the specified value.
Tips
- To exclude blanks, use =COUNTIF(A2:A100,"<>""") — this counts all non-empty cells.
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
Is the comparison case-sensitive?
No, COUNTIF is case-insensitive, so 'pending', 'Pending', and 'PENDING' are all treated the same.
Can I exclude multiple values at once?
Yes — use =COUNTA(range)-COUNTIF(range,"Value1")-COUNTIF(range,"Value2") or sum multiple COUNTIF expressions.
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