How to Multiply Two Columns in Microsoft Excel

Quick summary

To multiply two columns in Microsoft Excel, you build a simple multiplication formula using the asterisk operator and cell references, then use the Fill handle to apply it across all rows instantly.

Steps

1. Inside your Microsoft Excel worksheet, select a cell next to the two columns you wish to multiply and type an Equals sign (=).
2. Type the cell reference containing the first factor of the multiplication operation.
3. Type an Asterisk sign (*) to indicate multiplication.
4. Enter the cell reference containing the second factor to complete the formula.
5. Click anywhere in the worksheet to run the formula and display the result.
6. Return to the result cell, grab the Fill handle at the bottom-right corner, and drag it downward to copy the formula to all rows below.
7. The multiplication formula is now applied across both columns, calculating all products automatically.