Function Problems

How to Convert Days into Hours Using Excel Formulas

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to convert a list of leave days into hours by multiplying each row's value by 7.5 without manually writing the formula for every single row.

Product: Excel / WPS Spreadsheet
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Calculating total working hours or leave hours from a list of days in a spreadsheet.
Observed behavior: The user wants to automate the row-by-row multiplication (e.g., Days x 7.5) instead of typing formulas individually or encountering errors using range expressions.

Before you start

Ensure your days data is formatted as standard numbers in a single continuous column to allow seamless auto-filling.

Solution 1Recommended

Use a Multiplication Formula and the Fill Handle

The most efficient way to calculate hours for multiple rows is to write a single cell reference formula and drag it down.

Avoid using a range expression like =B4:B15*7.5 in a standard cell, as it may not display the expected row-by-row results without dynamic arrays. Referencing a single cell is the standard, foolproof approach.

Select the target cell

Click on the first empty cell where you want the calculated hours to appear (for example, cell C4).

Enter the multiplication formula

Type the formula =B4*7.5 (assuming your first day value is located in cell B4) and press the Enter key.

Drag to fill remaining rows

Select the cell with your new result, hover over the bottom-right corner until your cursor changes to a thin crosshair (the Fill Handle), and drag it down the column to apply the formula to the remaining rows.

Auto-Adjusting References: Excel and similar spreadsheet software will automatically adjust the row references (e.g., B5, B6) for each subsequent row you drag the formula to.

Efficient Spreadsheet Alternative

Easily Calculate Data with WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Spreadsheet provides seamless support for all standard Excel formulas, including quick multiplication and the drag-to-fill feature. It allows you to process bulk data like days-to-hours conversions accurately and quickly.

1. Open your data in WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Office and open the worksheet containing your leave days data.
2. Input the formula: Select the adjacent blank cell, enter =B4*7.5, and press Enter.
3. Use the Fill Handle: Double-click or drag the small square at the bottom-right corner of the cell to calculate the rest of the column instantly.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel formulas and file formats (.xlsx)Intuitive Fill Handle for fast batch calculations and data modelingFree and lightweight alternative for daily office tasks

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my formula output an error when I use a range like =B4:B15*7.5?

Using a multi-cell range multiplier requires array formula capabilities. In standard or older spreadsheet environments, this returns an error. It is best practice to use a single cell reference like =B4*7.5 and fill it downwards.

How can I change the conversion rate from 7.5 to 8 hours?

Simply change the multiplier in your very first formula to =B4*8, press Enter, and then drag the Fill Handle down again. This will update all corresponding rows with the new calculation.

Can I put the 7.5 multiplier in its own cell instead of typing it into the formula?

Yes. You can type 7.5 in a separate cell (e.g., cell E1), and use an absolute reference in your formula like =B4*$E$1. The dollar signs lock the reference to E1, allowing you to drag the formula down while always multiplying by the value in E1.

Excel & Data Problems