How to Use the DSUM Function in WPS on Windows

This how-to guide includes 4 topics for using the DSUM function, covering formula entry, syntax prompts, argument completion, and result checking; you can jump in from the How-to Index.

How-to Index

How-to Guide

1. Enter the DSUM function

Entry point: Formulas tab → formula bar

1. Open an AirSheet file and select the cell where you want the result to appear.
2. Type = in the formula bar or directly in the current cell.
3. Continue by typing DSUM( to start entering the function.

Success Criteria

• UI state: The current cell enters formula editing mode and shows content beginning with =DSUM(.
• Next actions: You can continue to view the syntax prompt and enter arguments.

Tips While Using

• Common mistakes: If you do not type = first, the content may be treated as plain text.
• Environment limits: You need to be in an editable spreadsheet cell.

2. View the syntax prompt

Entry point: Type =DSUM( in the formula bar

1. After typing DSUM(, check whether a syntax prompt appears near the editing area.
2. Review the argument order and example details shown in the prompt.
3. Confirm the database range, field, and criteria range you need to reference.

Success Criteria

• UI state: A syntax prompt appears and shows argument requirements and examples.
• Next actions: You can continue filling in the function arguments based on the prompt.

Tips While Using

• Common mistakes: Ignoring the argument order can cause incorrect results or formula errors.

3. Fill in arguments and complete the calculation

Entry point: formula bar

1. Enter the correct arguments based on the syntax prompt.
2. Check that the parentheses are matched and the correct separator is used between arguments.
3. Press Enter to confirm the formula.
4. Check whether the calculation result appears in the target cell.

Success Criteria

• UI state: The target cell shows the calculation result and is no longer in editing mode.
• Next actions: You can copy the formula, change the criteria range, or continue editing other cells.
• No side effects: The source data range is not overwritten when you enter the formula.

Tips While Using

• Common mistakes: Unmatched parentheses, the wrong number of arguments, or an incorrect field reference can all cause formula errors.
• Environment limits: Some environments may also support semicolons as separators, so follow the current input setting.

4. Recalculate manually and check the result

Entry point: keyboard shortcut or result review after editing data

1. If the result does not match your expectation, first check whether referenced cells contain numbers stored as text.
2. Check whether there is a circular reference or an incorrect criteria range.
3. If you need to recalculate, press F9 to trigger recalculation manually.
4. Compare the result with the source data again.

Success Criteria

• UI state: The result updates after recalculation, or the cause of the issue is identified.
• Next actions: You can continue adjusting arguments and verify the result again.

Tips While Using

• Common mistakes: Entering numbers as text can affect the total.
• Environment limits: Manual recalculation depends on the keyboard shortcut working normally on the current device.