Google Sheets Basics
Updated: May 17
I often use Google Sheets. Here are some basic things to know in case you're unfamiliar.
Basics to Note:
Use a Laptop or a Desktop Preferably
While it's possible to use a tablet or smartphone to edit a Google Sheet, it's much more user-friendly on a desktop or laptop.
If you must use a smartphone, it's best to have the Google Sheets App downloaded, but know that it will still be more cumbersome to navigate, especially with large sheets.
Editing Navigation on a Desktop or Laptop:
Editing Privileges
As long as you're using a desktop, laptop, or the Google Sheets app, if you've been given editing privileges, you should be able to enter words into the cells, delete things, add rows, etc. If you don't have editing privileges and are working with something with your name on it, ask the owner for editing privileges.
Real-Time Updates
Once you've clicked out of a cell that you were adding to, there are real time updates. There's no saving necessary as long as you've clicked out of the cell that you have been editing.
Efficiency Boosting Navigation Tips
If you're finished editing a particular cell, and want to save it and go to the right to edit the next cell to the right, click the tab key on your keyboard.
If you're finished editing a particular cell, and want to save it and go immediately below it to edit the next cell to the bottom, click the enter key on your keyboard.
Setting Up Notifications on a Shared Spreadsheet
Here's how to set up notifications on a Google Sheet:
Hover over "Tools"
Hover over "Notification settings"
Click "Edit notifications"
4. Set notification rules to "Any changes are made"
5. Notify me with "Email-right away"
6. If you'd like to know right away but aren't on top of email all the time, use CNET's guide on establishing email-to-text notifications.
How to Select Rows & Columns
1. If looking to select more than 1 column (or just 1), click on the far top side letter (in blue below):
2. If looking to select more than 1, hold down shift, and while holding down shift, click on another column to the right or to the left of it, which should highlight each selected column as well as all columns between them.
The same principle applies to rows except selecting the rows with the number on the left and dragging them up or down.
