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Google Sheets tutorials›Errors›Formula showing as text

Google Sheets · Verified tutorial

Formula showing as text in Google Sheets

G2 shows formula text instead of a result. Replace its contents with exactly =SUM(B2:B4).

Verified by JosephineJuly 25, 2026About 75 seconds

Quick answer

G2 shows formula text instead of a result. Replace its contents with exactly =SUM(B2:B4).

Step-by-step

1

Select the targetG2 shows formula text instead of a result.

2

Apply the changeReplace its contents with exactly =SUM(B2:B4).

Shortcut or faster method

Select the target cell, type or paste the formula in the formula bar, then press Enter.

Expected result

G2 contains the corrected formula and displays 60.

Common mistake

Applying the change to more rows, columns, or cells than the task specifies.

Troubleshooting

Re-select G2 and repeat the final action. G2 contains the corrected formula and displays 60.

Example spreadsheet data

This is the clean fixture used for the verified run.

Name	Amount
Alpha	10
Beta	20
Gamma	30

Video transcript

Open the prepared Formula repair spreadsheet.
Select the target. G2 shows formula text instead of a result.
Apply the change. Replace its contents with exactly =SUM(B2:B4).
G2 contains the corrected formula and displays 60.