We can create a sequence of numbers in Excel or Google Sheets in several ways, depending on whether we want a dynamic formula, a quick draggable series, or numbering that survives row changes. Here are three methods.
1. The SEQUENCE Function (Fastest and Dynamic)
SEQUENCE is available in modern Excel (Microsoft 365 and Excel 2021) and in Google Sheets. One formula fills a whole block of cells, spilling the numbers across rows and columns.
=SEQUENCE(rows, [columns], [start], [step])Only rows is required. The defaults are one column, a start of 1 and a step of 1.
| Formula | Result |
|---|---|
=SEQUENCE(10) |
1 to 10 in a single column |
=SEQUENCE(5, 2) |
5 rows and 2 columns, filled row by row with 1 to 10 |
=SEQUENCE(10, 1, 5, 3) |
10 numbers starting at 5, rising by 3: 5, 8, 11, … |
=SEQUENCE(10, 1, 10, -5) |
A descending series: 10, 5, 0, -5, … |
A negative step gives a descending sequence.
2. The Fill Handle (Manual and Quick)
The fill handle is the small green square at the bottom-right corner of the selected cell(s). Drag it, and the spreadsheet continues the pattern.
- A simple 1, 2, 3, … list: type
1in the first cell and2in the cell below. Select both, hover over the fill handle until a plus sign appears, and drag down. - Any other pattern: type two numbers that set the rule, such as 2 and 4 for even numbers or 1 and 3 for odd numbers, select them, and drag down.
- Dragging a single number: this normally copies the same value. Click the small AutoFill Options icon that appears and choose Fill Series to turn the copies into a sequence. In Excel, holding
Ctrlwhile dragging a single number forces it to increment.
3. The ROW Function (Numbering That Adjusts Itself)
If we want a column of numbers that updates when rows are added or deleted, ROW is a good choice. Placed in cell A1:
=ROW(A1)returns 1. Copying or dragging it down gives 2, 3, 4, and so on.
To make padded purchase-order or ID numbers, combine ROW with TEXT:
=TEXT(ROW(A1), "000-000")This turns row 1 into 000-001.
Which Method Should We Use?
- Need a quick list with no formulas? Use the fill handle.
- Need a flexible, formula-driven series with a custom start or step? Use
SEQUENCE. - Need numbers that stay correct as rows change, or formatted IDs? Use
ROW(withTEXT).