counting non-numerical in a list with blank entries

[SoE]

I'm trying to make a function that shows the number of A*+'s in a list of grades and ommits all blank entries. What is wrong with this formula =COUNTIF(G2:G222,"A*+"))
That is what I am currently using ns it gives me too large numbers (it counted 285 in a column with 220 spaces.) There are several more grades that I need to count also and I tried using an accumalative one ie: =COUNTIF(G2:G222,"A*+)+COUNTIF(G2:G222,"A*).... etc...

When I use these formulas it comes up with the error: "Formula refers to empty cells" as some students did not receive a grade in that subject. Is there any way that I could ommit these blank entries from my formula without going through and de-selecting them all, (there are over 200 students.

Thank you and any help is appreciated.

[Alf]

* is a "wildcard" giving you all values starting with A. To search exclusively for "A*+" you must write the formula like

=COUNTIF(G2:G222,"A~*+")

HTH

Alf

[SoE]

Thank you so much Problem solved.

[Alf]

Glad to be of help. Could you please mark your question "solved" and if do want to give me a pat on the back click on my scale icon and rate my answar.

Alf