Contents
11 Jan 2026 • 20:54
4 min read
Google Sheets is a cloud spreadsheet that stores data, runs simple calculations, and makes lists easy to update. It works in a browser and syncs automatically so you can access the same file from different devices.
Use Sheets for budgeting, tracking tasks, simple reports, or classroom lists. It is best when multiple people need to view or edit the same file in real time.
To start, open Google Sheets in your browser or from the Google apps menu. Click a blank document or choose a template to save time.
Templates speed up common tasks like budgets or schedules and are a good way to learn standard layouts. You can find example templates in the Sheets gallery to copy and adapt.
Sheets is a grid. Columns are vertical and labeled with letters. Rows are horizontal and labeled with numbers.
Each intersection of a row and column is a cell. Click a cell to type, edit, or enter a formula. Learn to read cell addresses like A1 — that means column A, row 1.
Type numbers, text, or dates directly into cells. Use the toolbar to change font, alignment, or number formats (currency, percent, date).
Formatting improves readability. For example, apply bold to headers, set column widths, and freeze header rows so they stay visible while you scroll.
Formulas begin with an equals sign. Use =SUM(A2:A10) to add a column of numbers or =AVERAGE(B2:B10) for the mean. These functions update automatically when values change.
Other helpful formulas include =COUNT, =MIN, and =MAX. Use cell ranges (A2:A10) instead of typing each cell name for cleaner formulas.
Add sheets for related data sets by clicking the + button at the bottom. Use separate sheets to avoid clutter and to organize months, projects, or data types.
Link data across sheets with formulas like =Sheet2!A1. This keeps a single source of truth while letting you build summary pages.
Sort columns to arrange items alphabetically or numerically. Apply filters to show only rows that meet a condition, such as dates in a certain range or values above a threshold.
Use built-in tools like Remove duplicates or the TRIM function to clean inconsistent text. Clean data makes summaries and charts more reliable.
Select your data and choose Insert > Chart to make a visual summary. Bar, line, and pie charts are common; pick the one that matches your message.
Customize titles, axis labels, and colors in the chart editor so the chart communicates the point clearly. Charts update automatically when the data changes.
Share a file using the Share button. Give others Viewer, Commenter, or Editor access depending on what they need to do. Use comments to ask questions without changing cells.
Version history keeps earlier copies so you can restore older versions if needed. This makes collaboration safe and reversible.
Learn a few shortcuts to work faster, such as Ctrl+C/Ctrl+V for copy and Ctrl+Z to undo. Keyboard shortcuts help reduce repetitive mouse steps.
Explore add-ons to extend functionality and use prebuilt templates for common workflows. These tools save time and help you adopt reliable patterns.
Create three small projects: a monthly budget, a task tracker, and a simple sales log. Each project uses different Sheets features and builds practical skill.
Practice inputting data, applying formulas, and making a chart. Repeating simple projects develops speed and confidence.
If formulas show errors, check cell references and ensure data types match (numbers vs text). Use the function help in the formula bar for syntax guidance.
For official function details and deeper examples, consult the online function list and the template gallery for ready-made layouts. These resources give reliable, step-by-step help.
