Excel allows a user to count all cells from a range that are blank, by using the COUNTBLANK function.  The function takes in count texts, numbers, spaces, results of other function, etc. This step by step tutorial will assist all levels of Excel users in counting blank cells in a range.

Figure 1. The result of the COUNTBLANK function

Syntax of the COUNTBLANK Formula

The generic formula for the COUNTBLANK function is:

=COUNTBLANK(range)

The parameter of the COUNTBLANK function is:

• range – a range of cells where we want to count non-blank cells.

Counting Blank Cells Using the COUNTBLANK Function

In our example, we want to count all blank cells in the range B3:B10. In the cell B8, we put a space. In the cell B9, there is the formula which returns a space as a result. The formula looks like:

=COUNTBLANK(B3:B10)

The parameter range is B3:B10, while in the cell D3 we want to get a result of the COUNTBLANK function.

To apply the COUNTBLANK function, we need to follow these steps:

• Select cell D3 and click on it
• Insert the formula: =COUNTBLANK(B3:B10)
• Press enter

Figure 2. Using the COUNTBLANK function to count non-blank cells in the range

There is only 1 blank cell in the range, as B8 and B9 contain a space. Because of that, the result of the function in the cell D3 is 1.

Notes

If the cell contains an empty text as a result of the function, the COUNTBLANK will take it in the count.

Most of the time, the problem you will need to solve will be more complex than a simple application of a formula or function. If you want to save hours of research and frustration, try our live Excelchat service! Our Excel Experts are available 24/7 to answer any Excel question you may have. We guarantee a connection within 30 seconds and a customized solution within 20 minutes.