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How to calculate a cumulative percentage in Excel and Google Sheets
Topic:PercentagesExcel & Google Sheets
=SUM($B$2:B2)/SUM($B$2:$B$6)✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| Category | Count | Cumulative % |
| A | 50 | |
| B | 30 | |
| C | 10 | |
| D | 7 | |
| E | 3 |
=SUM($B$2:B2)/SUM($B$2:$B$6)→0.5
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Step by step
- 1Enter your values in column B (e.g., B2:B6).
- 2In C2, enter =SUM($B$2:B2)/SUM($B$2:$B$6). The first reference expands as you copy down; the second stays fixed.
- 3Copy C2 down to C6. The numerator grows row by row, the denominator stays constant.
- 4Format column C as Percentage to display results like 20%, 45%, etc.
Tips
- Sort your values in descending order before applying this formula to build a classic Pareto (80/20) analysis chart.
Need it for your exact data?
Describe your columns in plain English and get the precise formula for your sheet, with the right Excel or Sheets syntax.
Frequently asked
Why does the last row always show 100%?
Because SUM($B$2:B6) equals SUM($B$2:$B$6) in the last row, making the fraction exactly 1 (100%).
Can I do this for grouped data?
Yes, first use SUMIF to get subtotals by group, then apply the cumulative percentage formula to the subtotals.
More on Percentages
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