What kind of values does a COUNTA function count in a dataset?

The COUNTA function counts all non-empty cells in a dataset, which includes a wide range of values such as text, numbers, dates, and even errors. This makes it particularly useful for determining the total number of entries or recorded data points in a dataset, regardless of their type. By counting all values—including both textual and numerical entries—COUNTA provides a comprehensive overview of how much data is present, excluding only truly blank cells.

In contrast, other functions like COUNT only account for numeric values, while certain functions may focus on specific types of data, such as unique values or errors. Thus, the capability of COUNTA to encompass all non-empty types of data—both text and numbers—highlights its versatility in data analysis.