When calculating a running total, should withdrawals be subtracted and deposits added?

Yes. In a running total or cumulative balance, deposits increase the balance and withdrawals decrease it. The running total is calculated by starting with an initial balance and then adding each deposit amount while subtracting each withdrawal amount as you process the transactions in chronological order. For example, if the starting balance is $1,000, a deposit of $200 brings it to $1,200, and a withdrawal of $50 brings it to $1,150. This approach ensures that the balance always reflects the net effect of all cash inflows and outflows up to that point.