Google Sheets

A Basic Guide by Riley Aubertine

Introduction
A. The Purpose of Google Sheets
Google Sheets is a cloud-based spreadsheet application developed by Google. Sheets serves a multitude of pur-
poses, revolutionizing how individuals and businesses manage data, collaborate, and analyze information. With
its intuitive interface, extensive functionality, and accessibility across devices, Google Sheets has become an
indispensable tool for various tasks, from simple data entry to complex financial modeling. Here’s a closer look
at its purpose and significance:

Data Organization and Management:

Google Sheets provides users with a platform to organize and manage data efficiently. Users can create, edit,
and format spreadsheets containing rows and columns of information. This makes it easy to store, update, and
retrieve data. Whether it’s personal budgets, project plans, inventory lists, or sales reports, Google Sheets offers
a solution for organizing many types of data.

Collaboration and Sharing:

One of Google Sheets’ most powerful features is its collaboration capabilities. Multiple users can work on the
same spreadsheet simultaneously, viewing real-time changes and edits made by others. This fosters seamless
teamwork, whether among colleagues in a professional setting or collaborators on a personal project. Addition-
ally, users can easily share spreadsheets with specific individuals or groups, controlling access levels to ensure
data security and privacy.

Accessibility and Cross-Platform Integration:

As a cloud-based application, Google Sheets is accessible from any device with an internet connection, be it a
computer, smartphone, or tablet. This accessibility eliminates the need for users to be tied to a specific device
or location when working on their spreadsheets. Furthermore, Google Sheets integrates seamlessly with other
Google Workspace applications, such as Google Drive, Docs, and Slides, allowing for streamlined workflows
and efficient data sharing across various platforms.

Data Analysis and Visualization:

Google Sheets offers a range of powerful tools and functions for data analysis and visualization. Users can per-
form calculations, create charts and graphs, apply conditional formatting, and utilize pivot tables to gain insights
from their data. Whether it’s tracking financial trends, analyzing survey responses, or monitoring project mile-
stones, Google Sheets empowers users to derive meaningful conclusions from their data with ease.

Automation and Customization:

To further enhance productivity, Google Sheets supports automation and customization through add-ons, scripts,
and macros. Users can extend the functionality of Google Sheets by integrating add-ons for specific tasks or
writing custom scripts to automate repetitive processes. This flexibility enables users to tailor Google Sheets to
their unique needs and streamline their workflows more effectively.

Education and Learning:

In addition to its professional applications, Google Sheets serves as a valuable educational tool for students and
teachers alike. Educators can use Google Sheets to create interactive lesson plans, track student progress, and
facilitate collaborative projects. Students can learn essential skills such as data analysis, mathematical modeling,
and teamwork by working with spreadsheets in a familiar and accessible environment.

Introduction | Purpose of Google Sheets - 1

Cost-Effectiveness and Scalability:
Google Sheets offers a cost-effective solution for individuals and businesses of all sizes, with various pricing
tiers, including a free option for personal use. This affordability, combined with the scalability of cloud-based
infrastructure, makes Google Sheets an attractive option for startups, small businesses, and large enterprises
alike. Users can start small and expand their usage as their needs grow, without the need for significant upfront
investments in software or hardware.

In essence, the purpose of Google Sheets extends far beyond basic spreadsheet functionality. It empowers users
to organize data effectively, collaborate seamlessly, analyze information comprehensively, and automate work-
flows efficiently. Whether it’s managing finances, planning projects, or conducting data-driven research, Google
Sheets continues to be a versatile and indispensable tool in the digital age.

B. An Overview of Functions, Hotkeys, and Templates

Functions:
Google Sheets offers a vast array of built-in functions to perform calculations, manipulate data, and analyze
information. We will go over some of the basic ones in this guide. Functions enable users to manipulate and ana-
lyze data effectively, making it easier to derive insights and draw conclusions from their spreadsheets.

Hotkeys:
Hotkeys, or keyboard shortcuts, are keystroke combinations that provide quick access to various functions with-
in Google Sheets. They enable users to perform tasks efficiently without relying on menus or mouse clicks. We
will go over the common hotkeys in this guide.

Templates:
Google Sheets provides a variety of pre-designed templates to simplify the creation of common spreadsheet doc-
uments. These templates cover a wide range of use cases, including budgeting, project management, inventory
tracking, and financial analysis. Users can access templates directly from the Google Sheets template gallery or
via the Google Sheets homepage. Templates save time and effort by providing layouts, formulas, and formatting
options. This allows users to focus on inputting their data rather than designing their spreadsheet from nothing.
We will go over how to use some of the template gallery templates in this guide.

Introduction | An Overview of Functions, Hotkeys, and Templates - 2

Table of Contents
Introduction
A. Purpose of Google Sheets..................................................................................................................... 1
B. Overview of Functions, Hotkeys, and Templates................................................................................. 2

I. Google Sheets Functions

A. Basic Functions.................................................................................................................................... 5,6
I. SUM.............................................................................................................................................. 5
II. AVERAGE................................................................................................................................... 5
III. MAX/MIN.................................................................................................................................. 6
IV. COUNT/COUNTA...................................................................................................................... 6
B. Mathematical Functions....................................................................................................................... 7,8
I. ROUND......................................................................................................................................... 7
II. ABS.............................................................................................................................................. 7
III. SQRT........................................................................................................................................... 8
IV. RAND.......................................................................................................................................... 8
C. Text Functions...................................................................................................................................... 9,10
I. CONCATENATE........................................................................................................................... 9
II. LEFT/RIGHT................................................................................................................................ 9
III. LEN............................................................................................................................................. 10
IV. SUBSTITUTE............................................................................................................................. 10
D. Date and Time Functions................................................................................................................... 11,12
I. DATE............................................................................................................................................. 11
II. TODAY/NOW.............................................................................................................................. 11
III. DATEDIF.................................................................................................................................... 12
IV. TIME........................................................................................................................................... 12

II. Google Sheets Hotkeys

A. Common Hotkeys................................................................................................................................. 13
I. Ctrl + C (Copy).............................................................................................................................. 13
II. Ctrl + V (Paste)............................................................................................................................. 13
III. Ctrl + X (Cut)............................................................................................................................... 13
IV. Ctrl + Z (Undo)............................................................................................................................ 13
B. Navigation Hotkeys.............................................................................................................................. 14
I. Ctrl + [Up Arrow] (Go to top)....................................................................................................... 14
II. Ctrl + [Down Arrow] (Go to bottom).......................................................................................... 14
III. Ctrl + ←/→ (Move to previous/next sheet)................................................................................ 14
IV. Ctrl + Home/End (Go to first/last cell)........................................................................................ 14
C. Editing Hotkeys..................................................................................................................................... 15
I. Ctrl + D (Fill down)....................................................................................................................... 15
II. Ctrl + R (Fill right)....................................................................................................................... 15
III. Ctrl + Shift + → (Select range to the right)................................................................................. 15
IV. Ctrl + Shift + ← (Select range to the left)................................................................................... 15

Table of Contents - 3
III. Google Sheets Templates
A. Introduction to Templates...................................................................................................................... 16
B. Accessing Templates............................................................................................................................. 16
C. Popular Templates................................................................................................................................. 17,18
I. Budget Templates........................................................................................................................... 17
II. Project Management Templates.................................................................................................... 17
III. Schedule Templates..................................................................................................................... 18
IV. Inventory Templates.................................................................................................................... 18
D. Customizing Templates........................................................................................................................ 19.20
I. Modifying Columns/Rows............................................................................................................. 19
II. Changing Formatting.................................................................................................................... 19
III. Adding Custom Functions........................................................................................................... 20
IV. Collaborating on Templates......................................................................................................... 20

Conclusion
A. Recap of Google Sheets Functions, Hotkeys, and Templates.............................................................. 21
B. Encouragement for Further Exploration and Learning........................................................................ 22

Glossary........................................................................................................................................................ 24,25

Table of Contents - 4
I. Functions
A. Basic Functions
I. SUM
The SUM function in Google Sheets is a powerful tool used to quickly add up a range of numbers within a
spreadsheet. It allows users to calculate the total of multiple cells by simply specifying the range of cells to be
summed. For example, typing “=SUM(A1:A5)” will add up the values in cells A1 through A5 and display the
result in the cell where the formula is entered. Additionally, the SUM function can handle a mix of numbers,
cell references, and even other functions, making it versatile for various calculation needs.

II. AVERAGE
The AVERAGE function in Google Sheets calculates the mean of a range of numbers. It adds up all the num-
bers in the specified range and then divides the sum by the count of numbers in that range. This function is com-
monly used to find the average value of a dataset, making it useful for tasks such as analyzing grades, tracking
expenses, or summarizing survey responses. Typing “=AVERAGE(A1:A5)” will add up the values in cells A1
through A5, divide by 5, and display the result in the cell where the formula is entered.

Functions | Basic Functions - 5

III. MAX/MIN
The MAX and MIN functions in Google Sheets are used to find the highest (MAX) or lowest (MIN) value with-
in a range of cells. These functions are particularly useful for data analysis, allowing users to quickly identify
the largest or smallest value in a dataset without manually scanning through the data. The MAX function returns
the maximum value from the specified range, while the MIN function returns the minimum value. Additionally,
these functions can be combined with other functions and formulas to perform more complex calculations and
comparisons within a spreadsheet. Entering “=MAX(A1,A5)” will display the highest number, and entering
“=MIN(A1,A5)” will display the lowest number, as seen below.

IV. COUNT/COUNTA
The COUNT and COUNTA functions in Google Sheets are used to count the number of cells containing data
within a specified range. The COUNT function counts the number of cells within a range that contain numeri-
cal values, not including blank, text, or error cells. The COUNTA function counts the number of cells within a
range that are not empty, including text, number, logical value, and error cells. Both functions are valuable for
quickly obtaining counts of data entries in a range, specifically for data analysis and spreadsheet organization.

Functions | Basic Functions - 6

B. Mathematical Functions
I. ROUND
The ROUND function in Google Sheets is a tool for rounding numbers to a specified number of digits. It rounds
a given number to the nearest specified digit or decimal place. This function takes two arguments: the number to
be rounded and the number of digits to which the number should be rounded. If the second argument is positive,
the number is rounded to that many decimal places to the right of the decimal point. Conversely, if the second
argument is negative, the number is rounded to that many digits to the left of the decimal point. If the second ar-
gument is zero, the number is rounded to the nearest integer. Overall, the ROUND function is useful for adjust-
ing numerical data to meet specific formatting or precision requirements.

II. ABS
The ABS function in Google Sheets stands for “absolute.” Its purpose is to return the positive value of any giv-
en number, regardless of its original sign. This function is useful for scenarios where you need to disregard the
negative sign of a number and focus only on its magnitude. For example, if you have a cell containing the value
-5, applying the ABS function to it would return 5. It’s a simple yet handy tool for various calculations and data
manipulations within Google Sheets.

Functions | Mathematical Functions - 7

III. SQRT
The SQRT function in Google Sheets is used to calculate the square root of a given number. It takes one ar-
gument, which is the number you want to find the square root of. If you want to find the square root of 9, you
would use the formula “=SQRT(9),” which would return the value 3. This function is useful for various mathe-
matical calculations, such as finding the length of one side of a square given its area or finding the magnitude of
a vector in physics or engineering applications.

IV. RAND
The RAND function in Google Sheets generates a random number between 0 and 1. It’s a useful tool for scenar-
ios where you need to simulate randomness or create random data sets. By typing “=RAND()” into a cell, you
can produce a new random number each time the sheet recalculates. This function can be particularly handy in
tasks like statistical analysis, simulations, or simply for generating random values for testing purposes.

Functions | Mathematical Functions - 8

C. Text Functions
I. CONCATENATE
The CONCATENATE function in Google Sheets allows users to combine multiple strings or values into a sin-
gle cell. It’s particularly useful for joining text from different cells or adding specific characters between them.
Users can simply list the cells or text they want to combine within the function, separating each with a comma.
CONCATENATE offers flexibility in arranging text and values in a desired format, enhancing readability and
organization within a spreadsheet.

II. LEFT/RIGHT
The LEFT and RIGHT functions in Google Sheets are used to extract a specific number of characters from the
beginning (LEFT) or end (RIGHT) of a text string. For the LEFT function, specify the text string and the num-
ber of characters you want to extract from the left side. For example, “=LEFT(A1, 5)” would extract the first 5
characters from cell A1. For the RIGHT function, you specify the text string and the number of characters you
want to extract from the right side. For example, “=RIGHT(A1, 5)” would extract the last 5 characters from cell
A1.These functions are useful for parsing data or extracting specific information from text strings in Google
Sheets.

Functions | Text Functions - 9

III. LEN
The LEN function in Google Sheets is a tool used to determine the length of a specified string of text. It calcu-
lates the number of characters in a cell, including spaces and punctuation. By providing the cell reference or text
string as its argument, LEN returns the count of characters. This function is particularly useful for tasks such as
validating data entry lengths, manipulating text, or creating conditional formatting rules based on text length.

IV. SUBSTITUTE
The SUBSTITUTE function in Google Sheets is a tool for replacing specific instances of text within a cell. It
allows users to find a particular substring within a larger text and replace it with another substring. Users can
specify which occurrence of the substring they want to replace, or they can replace all occurrences within the
text. SUBSTITUTE is helpful for cleaning up data, formatting text, or making specific changes to strings within
a spreadsheet. Its syntax is straightforward, requiring the text to be replaced, the text to replace it with, and the
cell or range where the substitution should occur.

Functions | Text Functions - 10

D. Date and Time Functions
I. DATE
The DATE function is a tool for creating a date value based on specified year, month, and day compo-
nents. Its syntax requires three arguments: year, month, and day, each represented as integers. For example,
“=DATE(2024, 4, 11)” would generate the date April 11, 2024. This function is handy for various tasks such as
calculating durations, generating date ranges, or constructing date-based formulas. It simplifies date manipula-
tion within Google Sheets, enhancing its versatility for organizing and analyzing data over time.

II. TODAY/NOW
The TODAY function returns the current date in the selected cell. It doesn’t require any arguments, simply
typing “=TODAY()” will populate the cell with today’s date, which updates automatically every time the sheet
is recalculated or opened on a new day. The NOW function, on the other hand, returns the current date and
time. Like TODAY, it also doesn’t require any arguments and will update the cell with the current date and time
whenever the sheet recalculates or opens. These functions are handy for tracking dates and times in spread-
sheets, especially for tasks like scheduling, tracking deadlines, or creating timestamps.

Functions | Date and Time Functions - 11

III. DATEDIF
The DATEDIF function calculates the difference between two dates in terms of years, months, or days. Its syn-
tax is straightforward: you provide the start date, end date, and the unit (such as “Y” for years, “M” for months,
or “D” for days) for the calculation. This function can be handy for various tasks like calculating someone’s age,
tracking project durations, or analyzing trends over time. However, it’s worth noting that Google Sheets doesn’t
officially support DATEDIF, but it still works due to backward compatibility with Excel.

IV. TIME
The TIME function is a tool for manipulating and working with time values. It allows users to create a time
value by specifying the hour, minute, and second components. The syntax for the TIME function is TIME(hour,
minute, second). This function is useful calculating time differences, adding or subtracting time from a given
value, or formatting time values for display purposes. Additionally, it can be combined with other functions
like SUM or AVERAGE to perform more complex calculations involving time. The TIME function in Google
Sheets simplifies time-related operations, making it easier for users to manage and analyze time data within
their spreadsheets.

Functions | Date and Time Functions - 12

II. Hotkeys
A. Common Hotkeys
I. Ctrl + C
To use Ctrl + C in Google Sheets, simply select the cells or range of data you want to copy, then press Ctrl + C
on your keyboard. Alternatively, you can right-click on the selected cells and choose “Copy” from the context
menu. This keyboard shortcut copies the selected content to the clipboard, allowing you to paste it elsewhere in
your spreadsheet or into another document or application. Ctrl + C is a handy tool for quickly duplicating data
or moving information between cells within Google Sheets, streamlining your workflow and saving time.
II. Ctrl + V
To use Ctrl + V in Google Sheets, simply copy the desired content from another source using Ctrl + C, then nav-
igate to the cell where you want to paste the content. Press Ctrl + V, and the copied data will be pasted into the
selected cell. Ctrl + V is a convenient shortcut for quickly transferring data from one location to another within
a Google Sheets document.

III. Ctrl + X
To utilize Ctrl + X in Google Sheets, simply highlight the content you wish to cut from your spreadsheet. This
could be a cell, a range of cells, or even an entire row or column. Once selected, press Ctrl + X on your key-
board. This action will remove the selected content from its original location and store it in the clipboard. You
can then paste it elsewhere in your spreadsheet or in a different document using Ctrl + V. Ctrl + X is a conve-
nient shortcut for quickly moving data within Google Sheets, allowing for efficient organization and rearrange-
ment of information.

IV. Ctrl + Z
Using Ctrl + Z in Google Sheets is a simple yet powerful way to undo recent actions. Whether you’ve acciden-
tally deleted data, formatted cells incorrectly, or made any other mistakes, Ctrl + Z comes to the rescue. Simply
press Ctrl + Z on your keyboard, and Google Sheets will promptly reverse your most recent action, restoring
your spreadsheet to its previous state. This handy shortcut can save you time and frustration by quickly correct-
ing errors without the need for manual adjustments.

Hotkeys | Common Hotkeys - 13

B. Navigation Hotkeys
I. Ctrl + Up Arrow
To utilize Ctrl + Up Arrow in Google Sheets, first, navigate to the cell from which you want to begin your se-
lection. Press and hold the Ctrl key on your keyboard, then simultaneously press the Up Arrow key. This action
will quickly move your cursor to the topmost cell within the column, selecting all contiguous cells from your
starting point up to the first filled cell it encounters. This keyboard shortcut is particularly handy for swiftly
selecting data ranges, saving you time and effort while working with large sets of information in Google Sheets.

II. Ctrl + Down Arrow

To navigate efficiently in Google Sheets, use Ctrl + down arrow to quickly move to the bottom of a column of
data. Simply position your cursor within a column, hold down the Ctrl key, and press the down arrow key. This
shortcut allows you to swiftly jump to the last filled cell in the column, saving you time and effort when navigat-
ing through large datasets. It’s a handy trick for streamlining your workflow and locating specific information
within your spreadsheet with ease.

III. Ctrl + ←/→

In Google Sheets, utilizing Ctrl + ←/→ can significantly expedite navigation through your data. Simply hold
down the Ctrl key on your keyboard and press either the left arrow (←) or right arrow (→) key. Ctrl + ← will
take you to the farthest left cell within the current row that contains data, while Ctrl + → will navigate you to
the farthest right cell within the same row. This shortcut proves particularly handy when you need to swiftly
jump to the beginning or end of a row without scrolling manually, enabling seamless movement within your
spreadsheet for increased efficiency.

IV. Ctrl + Home/End

In Google Sheets, utilizing Ctrl + Home or Ctrl + End can significantly streamline navigation within your
spreadsheet. To swiftly move to the top-left cell of your sheet, press Ctrl + Home. Conversely, to navigate to the
bottom-right cell, hit Ctrl + End. These shortcuts are especially handy for large datasets, allowing you to swiftly
jump between the beginning and end of your sheet without tedious scrolling.

Hotkeys | Navigation Hotkeys - 14

C. Editing Hotkeys
I. Ctrl + D
In Google Sheets, pressing Ctrl + D is a handy shortcut for filling down data in a selected range. To use it effec-
tively, simply highlight the cell or cells containing the data you want to duplicate downwards. Then, press Ctrl +
D, and Google Sheets will automatically fill the selected cells with the data from the cell directly above, extend-
ing the pattern as far down as the adjacent column allows. This shortcut saves time, especially when you need to
replicate information quickly across multiple rows.

II. Ctrl + R
To use Ctrl + R in Google Sheets, simply select the cell or range of cells containing the data you want to fill,
then press Ctrl + R. This keyboard shortcut is a quick way to replicate the content of the cell or cells to the right.
It’s especially handy when you have a series of data or formulas that you want to extend across adjacent cells.
By using Ctrl + R, you can efficiently populate cells with consistent data without the need for manual copying
and pasting. This feature streamlines the process of data entry and formatting, saving you time and effort while
working on spreadsheets in Google Sheets.

III. Ctrl + Shift + →

Using Ctrl + Shift + → in Google Sheets can expedite your workflow by selecting all data in a row from the
current cell to the furthest right cell with content. This keyboard shortcut is handy when you need to quickly
highlight entire rows or blocks of data without manually dragging your cursor across the sheet. By pressing Ctrl
+ Shift + →, you can navigate through your spreadsheet, making data selection and manipulation more seamless
and efficient.

IV. Ctrl + Shift + ←

To utilize Ctrl + Shift + ← in Google Sheets, first, ensure you’re within a spreadsheet. This keyboard shortcut
is for selecting all data to the left of the active cell within a row. Position your cursor in the desired cell, hold
down the Ctrl and Shift keys simultaneously, and then press the left arrow key. All data in that row, up to the
furthest left cell containing content, will be highlighted.

Hotkeys | Editing Hotkeys - 15

III. Templates
A. Introduction to Templates
Templates in Google Sheets offer pre-designed spreadsheets with formatted layouts and formulas tailored for
specific tasks or industries. They provide a quick and efficient way to start a project without having to build
everything from scratch. Google Sheets offers a wide range of templates, including budget planners, calendars,
project trackers, and more, which users can access directly from the Google Sheets homepage or through the
Template Gallery. Whether you’re managing finances, tracking projects, or organizing schedules, templates
streamline the process, saving time and ensuring consistency in your spreadsheets.

B. Accessing Templates
Accessing templates in Google Sheets is a breeze, offering a shortcut to professional and pre-designed spread-
sheets for various purposes. To find these templates, first, open Google Sheets and navigate to the “Template
Gallery” by clicking on the “Template Gallery” button located in the upper-right corner of the main screen.
Alternatively, you can access it through the “File” menu by selecting “New” and then “From template.” Once
there, you’ll discover a plethora of templates ranging from budget planners to project trackers and beyond.
Browse through the categories or use the search bar to find a template tailored to your needs. Click on the
desired template to preview it and then select “Use template” to make a copy and start customizing it with your
own data. It’s a hassle-free way to kickstart your projects with professionally designed layouts.

Templates | Introduction to Templates- 16

C. Popular Templates
I. Budgeting Templates
Google Sheets offers an array of budgeting templates designed to streamline the financial planning process for
individuals and businesses alike. Accessible through the Template Gallery or by selecting “From template”
under the “File” menu, these templates cover a spectrum of financial needs, from personal budgets to business
expense tracking. Whether you’re managing monthly expenses, tracking income and expenditures, or creating
comprehensive financial plans, there’s a template to suit your requirements. Many of these templates come with
pre-built formulas for automatic calculations, customizable categories, and visual representations of your finan-
cial data, making budgeting more intuitive and efficient. With Google Sheets budgeting templates, users can
gain better insight into their finances, set realistic goals, and make informed financial decisions.

II. Project Management Templates

Google Sheets offers an array of project management templates designed to streamline organizational work-
flows and enhance collaboration among team members. These templates cover a spectrum of project manage-
ment needs, from simple task lists to comprehensive Gantt charts. Accessing these templates is straightforward:
simply open Google Sheets, navigate to the “Template Gallery,” and explore the project management category.
Within this category, you’ll find templates for project timelines, task trackers, issue trackers, and more. Once
you’ve selected a template that suits your project’s requirements, you can customize it to fit your specific tasks,
deadlines, and team members. With these pre-designed templates, managing projects in Google Sheets becomes
more efficient and organized.

Templates | Popular Templates- 17

III. Schedule Templates
Google Sheets offers a range of schedule templates designed to streamline your time management and organi-
zation efforts. Accessible through the Template Gallery, these templates cover various scheduling needs, from
weekly planners to employee shift schedules and project timelines. With customizable features like date ranges,
task lists, and color-coded categories, these templates make it easy to plan and track your schedule effectively.
Whether you’re managing personal appointments, coordinating team meetings, or tracking project deadlines,
Google Sheets’ schedule templates provide a flexible and convenient solution. Select the template that best fits
your requirements, customize it to suit your preferences, and start managing your schedule.

IV. Inventory Templates

Inventory templates in Google Sheets are invaluable tools for businesses and individuals alike, simplifying the
management of stock levels and tracking of goods. Accessing these templates is straightforward: simply open
Google Sheets and navigate to the “Template Gallery” by clicking on the “Template Gallery” button in the
upper-right corner or through the “File” menu. Once there, explore the inventory template options, which range
from basic inventory trackers to more advanced solutions with features like barcode scanning and automatic
calculations. Choose a template that aligns with your needs, then click “Use template” to make a copy and begin
customizing it to suit your inventory management requirements. These templates often include sections for item
names, descriptions, quantities, prices, and more, providing a structured framework to streamline inventory con-
trol processes and ensure accurate record-keeping. With Google Sheets’ inventory templates, managing stock
levels becomes efficient and organized.

Templates | Popular Templates- 18

D. Cusomizing Templates
I. Modifying Columns/Rows
Modifying columns and rows on a template in Google Sheets is a simple process that allows users to tailor the
spreadsheet to their specific needs. Upon opening the template, users can navigate to the column or row they
wish to modify by clicking on the corresponding letter or number. To adjust column width, hover the cursor
over the line between two column letters until a double-sided arrow appears, then click and drag to resize the
column as desired. Similarly, to adjust row height, hover over the line between two row numbers and drag ac-
cordingly. Users can also insert or delete columns and rows by right-clicking on the column or row letter/num-
ber and selecting the desired option from the context menu. Additionally, users can customize column headers
by double-clicking on the header cell and typing in the desired text. These simple modifications allow users to
tailor the template to their specific requirements, ensuring that it meets their needs for organizing and analyzing
data.

II. Changing Formatting

Customizing the formatting of a template in Google Sheets is a straightforward process that allows users to tai-
lor the appearance of their spreadsheets to meet specific needs or preferences. Once you’ve opened the desired
template, simply navigate to the toolbar at the top of the screen. From there, you can access various formatting
options such as font styles, sizes, colors, cell borders, and background colors. To change the formatting of spe-
cific cells or ranges, click and drag to select the desired area, then right-click and choose “Format cells” from
the dropdown menu. This opens a dialog box where you can adjust the formatting settings to your liking. Ad-
ditionally, you can use keyboard shortcuts or the Format menu to quickly apply formatting changes. With these
customization options readily available, users can effortlessly modify the appearance of their Google Sheets
templates to create visually appealing and functional spreadsheets tailored to their unique requirements.

III. Adding Custom Functions

Adding custom functions to a template in Google Sheets enhances its functionality and tailors it to specific
requirements. To incorporate custom functions, first, open your Google Sheets template. Then, navigate to the
“Extensions” menu and select “Apps Script.” This will open the Google Apps Script editor where you can write
and edit custom scripts. Here, you can either create a new script or paste in a script you’ve already written.
Custom functions are written in JavaScript and can perform a wide range of tasks, from complex calculations
to data manipulation. Once you’ve added or written your custom function, save the script and close the Apps
Script editor. Your custom function is now available for use within the template. You can call it directly from
any cell in the spreadsheet, just like any other built-in function. This capability allows you to extend the func-
tionality of your template to suit your specific needs, making it a powerful tool for streamlining processes and
improving productivity.

Templates | Customizing Templates - 19

IV. Collaborating on Templates
Collaborating on a template in Google Sheets is a seamless process, enabling multiple users to work together in
real-time to create and modify spreadsheets. To initiate collaboration, open the template you want to work on
and then click the “Share” button in the top-right corner of the screen. From there, you can enter the email ad-
dresses of the collaborators or share a link to invite them. You can specify whether collaborators have view-only
access, comment access, or editing privileges. Once collaborators join the document, each person’s edits and
contributions are instantly visible to all participants. Google Sheets also offers a chat feature, allowing collab-
orators to communicate directly within the document, facilitating efficient teamwork. With real-time collabo-
ration in Google Sheets, users can harness the collective expertise of their team to create and refine templates,
leading to more comprehensive and effective solutions.

Templates | Customizing Templates - 20

Conclusion
A. Recap of Google Sheets Functions, Hotkeys, and Templates
Google Sheets stands out as a powerful tool for organizing data, performing calculations, and collaborating with
others in real-time. It offers a range of functions, hotkeys, and templates to streamline tasks and enhance effi-
ciency.

Functions:
Google Sheets has a vast array of functions to manipulate and analyze data. From simple arithmetic functions
like SUM and AVERAGE to more complex functions like VLOOKUP and QUERY, there’s a function for nearly
every task. These functions enable users to perform calculations, manipulate text, generate random numbers,
and much more. Additionally, Google Sheets supports custom functions, allowing users to create their own for-
mulas using Google Apps Script.

Hotkeys:
Mastering keyboard shortcuts can significantly boost productivity in Google Sheets. Some essential hotkeys
include Ctrl + C for copying, Ctrl + V for pasting, and Ctrl + Z for undoing actions. For navigating within a
spreadsheet, hotkeys like Ctrl + Arrow keys can quickly move to the edge of data ranges, while Ctrl + Shift +
Arrow keys can select entire ranges of data. These hotkeys streamline workflow, reducing reliance on the mouse
and saving valuable time.

Templates:
Google Sheets offers a wide range of templates to kickstart various projects and workflows. Whether it’s bud-
get trackers, project management tools, or inventory systems, there’s a template to suit every need. Accessing
templates is simple: users can browse the Template Gallery directly within Google Sheets or through the “File”
menu. Once a template is selected, users can customize it to fit their specific requirements, saving time and ef-
fort in creating from scratch. Moreover, users can create their own templates and share them with others, foster-
ing collaboration and knowledge-sharing within teams.

Google Sheets provides a comprehensive toolkit for managing data, boosting productivity, and collaborating
with others. Its extensive range of functions helps users to perform complex calculations and analyses with ease.
Hotkeys streamline workflow, allowing users to navigate and manipulate data quickly. Meanwhile, templates of-
fer ready-made solutions for various tasks, accelerating project initiation and simplifying collaboration. Whether
you’re a beginner or an advanced user, Google Sheets offers a lot of features to streamline your work.

Conclusion | A Recap of Google Sheets Functions, Hotkeys, and Templates - 21

B. Encouragement for Further Exploration and Learning
Congratulations on completing the user manual for Google Sheets! Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with
the basics, it’s time to dive deeper into the endless possibilities that Google Sheets offers. Here’s some encour-
agement to inspire you to continue your exploration and learning journey:

Harness the Power of Functions:

While you’ve learned about some fundamental functions, there’s a whole world of functions waiting to be
discovered. Explore advanced functions like INDEX-MATCH, ARRAYFORMULA, and IMPORTRANGE to
unleash the full potential of your spreadsheets. Experiment with combining functions to perform complex calcu-
lations and analyses, and don’t hesitate to consult online resources or communities for guidance.

Master Keyboard Shortcuts:

Keyboard shortcuts are a game-changer when it comes to productivity in Google Sheets. Take the time to
memorize essential shortcuts and integrate them into your workflow. As you become more proficient, you’ll find
yourself navigating, formatting, and manipulating data with lightning speed, saving valuable time and effort.

Customize Templates to Fit Your Needs:

While templates provide a great starting point, don’t be afraid to customize them to suit your specific require-
ments. Add or remove columns, modify formulas, and adjust formatting to tailor templates to your unique
workflows. By personalizing templates, you’ll create tools that are perfectly tailored to your needs, enhancing
your efficiency and productivity.

Embrace Collaboration and Sharing:

One of the most powerful features of Google Sheets is its ability to facilitate real-time collaboration. Invite
colleagues, friends, or classmates to collaborate on spreadsheets, enabling seamless teamwork and knowl-
edge-sharing. Explore advanced collaboration features like commenting, suggesting edits, and version history to
enhance collaboration further.

Dive into Data Visualization:

Google Sheets offers robust tools for visualizing data, from simple charts and graphs to interactive dashboards.
Experiment with different chart types, colors, and formatting options to create compelling visualizations that
effectively communicate your insights. Learning to effectively visualize data will not only enhance your presen-
tations but also deepen your understanding of your data.

Join Communities and Seek Inspiration:

Don’t hesitate to join online communities, forums, or social media groups dedicated to Google Sheets. Engaging
with like-minded individuals, sharing tips and tricks, and seeking inspiration from others’ work can be incredi-
bly motivating and enriching. Collaborating with others and learning from their experiences will accelerate your
learning journey and expand your skill set.

The journey of learning and exploration in Google Sheets is both exciting and rewarding. Embrace curiosity,
don’t fear experimentation, and be persistent in your pursuit of knowledge. With each new skill you acquire and
each challenge you overcome, you’ll become more proficient and confident in using Google Sheets to its fullest
potential. Happy exploring!

Conclusion | Encouragement for Further Exploration and Learning - 22

Glossary
B Basic Functions:
Fundamental functions in Google Sheets used for performing simple arithmetic op-
erations and counting data. Examples include SUM for adding values, AVERAGE for
calculating the average of a range, MAX/MIN for finding the highest and lowest values,
and COUNT/COUNTA for counting the number of cells containing data.

C Common Hotkeys:
Frequently used keyboard shortcuts in Google Sheets for basic editing and navigation
tasks. Examples include Ctrl + C for copying, Ctrl + V for pasting, Ctrl + X for cutting,
and Ctrl + Z for undoing actions.

D Date and Time Functions:

Functions in Google Sheets used for working with date and time values. Examples in-
clude DATE for creating a date value from year, month, and day components, TODAY/
NOW for getting the current date and time, DATEDIF for calculating the difference
between two dates, and TIME for creating a time value from hour, minute, and second
components.

E Editing Hotkeys:
Keyboard shortcuts in Google Sheets used for editing and manipulating data. Exam-
ples include Ctrl + D for filling down data, Ctrl + R for filling right, Ctrl + Shift + → for
selecting a range to the right, and Ctrl + Shift + ← for selecting a range to the left.

F Functions:
A comprehensive set of built-in formulas and operations designed to perform various
tasks within Google Sheets. These functions range from basic arithmetic operations
like SUM and AVERAGE to more advanced functions like VLOOKUP and QUERY,
enabling users to manipulate data, perform calculations, and analyze information effi-
ciently.

H
Hotkeys:
Keyboard shortcuts that provide quick access to various commands and functions with-
in Google Sheets. These hotkeys help users navigate, edit, and perform actions more
efficiently, reducing reliance on the mouse and streamlining workflow.

M
Mathematical Functions:
Functions in Google Sheets used for performing mathematical operations and calcu-
lations. Examples include ROUND for rounding numbers to a specified number of
decimal places, ABS for finding the absolute value of a number, SQRT for calculating
the square root of a number, and RAND for generating random numbers.

N Navigation Hotkeys:
Keyboard shortcuts in Google Sheets used for navigating within a spreadsheet. Exam-
ples include Ctrl + [Up Arrow] for jumping to the top of a sheet, Ctrl + [Down Arrow]
for jumping to the bottom, Ctrl + ←/→ for moving to the previous or next sheet, and
Ctrl + Home/End for jumping to the first or last cell.

Glossary | A-N - 23
T Templates:
Pre-designed spreadsheet layouts available in Google Sheets for various tasks and
projects. Templates provide users with a starting point for creating new spreadsheets,
covering a wide range of use cases such as budgeting, project management, scheduling,
and inventory tracking. Users can customize templates to fit their specific needs, saving
time and effort in creating from scratch.

Text Functions:
Functions in Google Sheets used for manipulating and analyzing text data. Examples
include CONCATENATE for combining text strings, LEFT/RIGHT for extracting char-
acters from the left or right side of a text string, LEN for calculating the length of a text
string, and SUBSTITUTE for replacing text within a string.

Glossary | N-Z - 24