This function counts the number of non-empty cells in an argument list. Use COUNTA() to determine how many cells in a range or array contain any type of data.
Syntax
COUNTA(value1; [value2]; …)
Arguments
- value1(required): The first item, cell reference, or range to evaluate
- value2,…(optional): Additional items to evaluate (up to 255 arguments total, or 30 in Excel)
The function counts:
- All data types (numbers, text, logical values, error values)
- Empty text strings (« »)
- Formulas that return empty strings (« »)
Excludes:
- Truly empty cells
- Cells containing formulas that return nothing
Background
Similar to COUNT(), but more inclusive:
- COUNT() only tallies numeric values
- COUNTA() counts all non-empty cells regardless of content type
- Particularly useful for mixed data types or when tracking data completeness
Example
Referring to Figure below, the function:
=COUNTA(C3:C25)
Returns 20 because:
- Counts all cells with values (numbers, text, etc.)
- Includes the word « closed » in the range
- Excludes only completely empty cells
Key Difference from COUNT()
COUNTA() provides a complete occupancy count, while COUNT() gives only numeric entries. Choose based on whether you need to:
- Count all data (COUNTA)
- Count only numbers (COUNT)