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How to create a sequential list of numbers in Excel and Google Sheets
Topic:Data cleaning & shapingHeads up: Excel and Google Sheets do this differently.
Excel
=ROW(A1)Google Sheets
=SEQUENCE(5,1,1,1)✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
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=ROW(A1)→1
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Step by step
- 1Fill handle: Type 1 in A1, 2 in A2, select both, and drag the fill handle down — Excel and Sheets both detect the pattern and continue the series.
- 2Formula (Excel / any version): In A1 type =ROW(A1) and copy down — always returns the row number of its own argument, giving 1, 2, 3, … regardless of where it's placed.
- 3Formula (Google Sheets / Excel 365): Use =SEQUENCE(10,1,1,1) in one cell to spill 10 sequential numbers starting at 1 with a step of 1 — adjust arguments as needed.
Tips
- SEQUENCE(n,1,start,step) is the most flexible option — for example, =SEQUENCE(5,1,10,5) gives 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 with no formula copies required.
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Frequently asked
How do I create a list from 1 to 100 instantly?
In Sheets or Excel 365 use =SEQUENCE(100) — it spills all 100 numbers automatically. In older Excel, type 1, select A1:A100, and use Fill → Series.
Can I create a sequential list with even or odd numbers only?
Yes — use SEQUENCE with a step of 2: =SEQUENCE(5,1,2,2) gives 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 (evens) or =SEQUENCE(5,1,1,2) gives 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 (odds).
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