google sheets

How To Use Functions In Google Sheets

Boost your productivity with Sourcetable's AI spreadsheet assistant. Work like a spreadsheet power user and answer all your questions in seconds.


Learn more
Jump to

How to Use Google Sheets

Google Sheets is a powerful tool for managing spreadsheets online. It allows you to create, edit, and collaborate on documents in real-time.

This guide will help you navigate essential features such as formulas, functions, and data organization. You'll also learn tips for faster workflow and better data management.

We will also explore why Sourcetable is a better alternative to using Google Sheets. Sourcetable makes it easy to become an advanced spreadsheet user faster as an AI-first spreadsheet, simplifying tasks like building formulas, queries, and automations.

google sheets

How to Use Google Sheets

How to Use Formulas in Google Sheets

To automate calculations in Google Sheets, use functions and formulas. Start a formula by typing "=" followed by the desired function. Nest functions to calculate multiple functions within a single cell. Nested functions act as components within the surrounding function. Remember to use the Data Connectors feature instead of CUBE functions.

How to Create Charts in Google Sheets

Select the cells you want to include in your chart. Click "Insert" and then "Chart." Double-click the chart to change its type: go to "Setup," click the down arrow under "Chart type," and select a chart from the list. To modify the data range, double-click the chart, click "Data range," and then "Grid" to select the cells. To add more data, click "Add another range," select the cells, and click "OK."

How to Filter Data in Google Sheets

Note that filters are available only on desktop. Filters allow you to hide unwanted data. To filter by values, tap "More," then "Create a filter." Tap "Filter" on the desired column, and the "Sort and filter" menu will open. Search to find a value or scroll to see column values. Uncheck an item to filter it out, and the sheet will update automatically. Use "Select all" to choose all items and "Clear" to uncheck all. Turn off the filter by tapping "More," then "Remove filter."

How to Use Functions in Google Sheets

Functions are predefined formulas that use specific values in a set order. Insert a function using the syntax: "=' followed by the function name and arguments enclosed in parentheses. Functions can take multiple arguments, separated by commas. Use the 'Functions" button to automatically return results for a range of cells, or manually type functions directly.

How to Share Google Sheets with Others

Up to 100 people can be given view, edit, or comment permissions in Google Sheets. More than 100 people can only view the file. The owner and certain editors can modify the file. Publishing the file as a web page allows over 100 people to view it. You can restrict access to specific people or allow anyone with the link to view it. Set people as viewers, commenters, or editors based on their access needs.

google sheets

How to Use in Google Sheets: Key Use Cases

1. Automating Calculations with Functions

Functions are predefined formulas in Google Sheets that perform specific calculations using given values in a particular order. The syntax for a function includes an equals sign (=), the function name, and arguments within parentheses. Functions can handle multiple arguments, separated by commas, allowing for complex calculations. Leverage the Functions button for automatic results or manually type in functions to streamline your data processing.

2. Creating Informative Charts

To visualize data effectively, select your desired cells and click Insert Chart in Google Sheets. You can customize the chart type by double-clicking the chart, clicking Setup, and choosing from the Chart type list. Modify the data range by clicking Grid under Data range. Add more data ranges by selecting Add another range and then clicking OK. This functionality helps in presenting data visually for better insights.

3. Applying Conditional Formatting

Conditional formatting in Google Sheets allows you to format cells based on specific criteria. In the Google Sheets app, select the range, tap Format, then Conditional formatting. Set conditions and choose the desired formatting style to highlight important data. Use custom formulas, wildcard characters, and absolute references for advanced formatting. This feature is essential for data analysis and quick identification of key metrics.

4. Enhancing Collaboration

Google Sheets enables seamless collaboration by allowing you to share spreadsheets with specific people or via a link. You can also unshare spreadsheets, comment, and chat with collaborators in real time. This functionality supports teamwork, making it easier to work on projects collectively and efficiently.

5. Implementing Data Validation

Data validation in Google Sheets ensures data accuracy and consistency. Right-click a column or use the Data menu to navigate to Data validation. Add rules by selecting the cell range and choosing criteria from the Criteria menu. Specify how users will be alerted about invalid inputs, ensuring data integrity in your spreadsheets.

sourcetable

Comparing Google Sheets and Sourcetable

Google Sheets is a robust online spreadsheet tool that many users utilize for various data tasks. However, Sourcetable offers advanced features that make it a more powerful choice for complex data management.

Sourcetable is an AI-first spreadsheet, providing an AI assistant that writes complex spreadsheet formulas and SQL queries for you. This feature is especially beneficial for users who would typically search for "how to use in Google Sheets" to accomplish advanced tasks. Sourcetable simplifies these tasks, making them accessible to anyone without needing deep technical knowledge.

In addition, Sourcetable integrates with over five hundred data sources. This integration enables users to search and ask any question about their data directly within the platform. For those who rely heavily on external data, this seamless integration is a significant advantage over Google Sheets.

Overall, Sourcetable excels in making time-consuming and advanced spreadsheet tasks manageable to a broader audience, positioning it as a superior solution for users typically seeking guidance on complex operations in Google Sheets.

sourcetable

How to Use Sourcetable

  1. Using Sourcetable is intuitive and efficient, thanks to its advanced AI-first approach. To start answering questions or performing tasks in Sourcetable, open the Sourcetable AI assistant.
  2. The Sourcetable AI assistant is a chatbot designed to help you with any spreadsheet-related inquiries. Simply type your question into the chatbot, whether it's about spreadsheet formulas, SQL queries, or general functionality.
  3. The AI assistant will use your spreadsheet data and the latest AI models to provide precise answers. This feature makes complex tasks accessible to everyone, allowing you to be more proficient with spreadsheets quickly.
  4. Sourcetable integrates with over five hundred data sources. You can search and query your data effortlessly, making data analysis straightforward and less time-consuming.
  5. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, the Sourcetable AI assistant will enhance your productivity and help you master spreadsheets faster than ever before.
google sheets

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I create a formula in Google Sheets?

To create a formula, type = and the function you want to use. The syntax for creating a formula with a function is to insert an equals sign (=), a function name, and an argument. Arguments are enclosed in parentheses.

How do I use conditional formatting in Google Sheets?

To create a conditional formatting rule, open a spreadsheet in the Google Sheets app on your Android phone or tablet. Select the range to format, tap Format Conditional formatting, set your rule conditions, choose the condition to trigger the rule under 'Format cells if', and choose the format style. Tap SAVE to apply the rule.

How can I add a pivot table in Google Sheets?

To add a pivot table, click Insert, then Pivot table. To add a value, click Add next to 'Rows' or 'Columns,' then choose a value. To change how data is listed, sorted, summarized, or filtered, click the Down Arrow next to the data.

What is the function syntax in Google Sheets?

The syntax of a function is the order in which the function must be entered. It starts with an equals sign (=), followed by the function name and arguments enclosed in parentheses. Multiple arguments are separated by a comma.

How do I use data validation in Google Sheets?

To use data validation, open the Google Sheet and navigate to the cell or range. Right-click the column and select 'Data validation' or click 'Data' on the menu bar and select 'Data validation'. Click '+ Add rule' in the sidebar, select the range of cells, specify the criteria, and choose how to alert the user on invalid input.

Can I use nested functions in Google Sheets?

Yes, you can use nested functions to calculate multiple functions in one cell. Nested functions are used as components of the surrounding function and should be entered in the same cell.

How do I manually type in functions in Google Sheets?

You can manually type in functions by entering an equals sign (=), followed by the function name and arguments enclosed in parentheses. Ensure the syntax is correct for the function to work properly.

What are pivot tables used for in Google Sheets?

Pivot tables are used to narrow down large data sets and show relationships between data points. They allow you to summarize, list, sort, and filter data in a concise manner.

Conclusion

Sourcetable makes answering questions in Google Sheets straightforward. Its AI capabilities allow users to automate anything in a spreadsheet, from generating reports to querying data.

Sourcetable integrates with third-party tools, offering real-time data access in a user-friendly interface for the entire team. By harnessing Sourcetable AI, you can easily manage spreadsheet formulas and intricate data queries.

Try Sourcetable now.



Sourcetable Logo

Work smarter, not harder

Boost your productivity with Sourcetable's AI spreadsheet assistant. Answer all your questions about spreadsheets in seconds. Try for free to get started.

Learn More
Drop CSV