Google Sheets is a cloud-based Google application that enables users to create or edit spreadsheets in their web browser. It is part of Google Workspace’s suite of productivity apps that allows multiple users to work together, and all users have the power to make any changes if needed. Moreover, this tool enables all users to view whatever changes are made in real-time and saves each change automatically. Google Sheets is used for multiple purposes, such as creating budgets, tracking expenses, or managing various projects.
While working with Google Sheets, some might find the need to copy valuable data from one Spreadsheet to another. While users can always copy essential documents and paste them into other spreadsheets, this process is time-consuming and becomes unmanageable when the user needs to copy complex and large volumes of data. Therefore, in this blog, we have presented you with a handy formula for importing valuable data within minutes. Let’s find out the easiest process of syncing one Google spreadsheet to another:
Tips for syncing one Spreadsheet to another effortlessly:
Sync data between two or more Google Sheets by using “Importrange“:
Step 1. Go to the main Google Sheet where the original data is stored, which you need to sync with another one. Take note of all the cells that you wish to sync. Now, copy the URL of the original sheet. You will find the URL in the browser’s address bar.
Step 2. Now go to the Spreadsheet where you want to import all the data. If you don’t have an existing one, you can always create a new one.
Step 3. Select the cell on the new and fresh Spreadsheet where you want to save the imported data. Now, type the following formula on the cell:
=IMPORTRANGE(“Source Spreadsheet URL”,“Source Range”)
Step 4. In the place of “Source Spreadsheet URL”, type the URL of the original Spreadsheet containing data; in the place of “Source range”, type the range you wish to import.
Remember, it is mandatory to include the quotation marks. Also, do not forget to add an exclamation mark before typing the cell range. Check if you have the exact copy of the tab URL.
Step 5. Press Enter.
Step 6. If this is your first-time importing data from that specific Spreadsheet, Google Sheets will ask for your permission before it performs the task as a security check. When you see an “allow access” pop-up, select yes. After you grant access, the process will be done within minutes. You will find the data in your new Spreadsheet, which is synchronized with the source spreadsheet.
What happens if any changes are made to the source spreadsheet?
The ‘Importrange’ function is designed in such a way that it can automatically update the data that has been imported to the second Spreadsheet. This implies that if you alter the data in the source spreadsheet, the same changes will be reflected in the second sheet as well. As a result, your data will remain synchronized all the time and display the exact replication in real-time.
Are Importrange and Import Data the same thing?
Import Data is a feature that imports data from different sources, for example, spreadsheets, URLs or some files to a selected spreadsheet. This procedure enables one-time placement of data and does not allow real-time synchronization. Whereas Importrange is an on-going procedure once enabled, offering real-time updates.
What are the alternatives to ‘Importrange’?
While utilizing the “Importrange” function is the most popular method of linking two Google Sheets together, although some users may not prefer this function or require more advanced synchronization processes. There are other alternatives available for them. Let’s check them out:
- Google Apps Script: Google Apps Script can automate different tasks in the Spreadsheet. It also allows users to create various custom functions. This tool allows programmers to write scripts for setting up tailored synchronization processes according to their needs. This advanced synchronization method provides customizable sync solutions, allowing anyone with specific knowledge about programming to use it to sync two different Google Sheets.
- Data integration tools: there are various tools available online that offer automated connection and data flow within different applications. These tools can even link two different Google Sheets with each other.
- Third-party add-ons: there are multiple add-ons you can use to expand the functionality of Google Spreadsheets. Some examples of third-party add-ons that can integrate well with Google Workspace applications include Sheetgo and Coupler.io. Leverage these tools to sync spreadsheets seamlessly without using any formulas.
Wrapping Up:
Google Sheets is a use-friendly tool allowing users to sync important data between different spreadsheets. There are multiple ways users can sync data between spreadsheets. However, the Importrange function is the most commonly used method offering flawless synchronization. With the help of “Importrange”, have all your spreadsheets remain updated and synchronized with real-time data. However, users who require more advanced synchronization with more control can always use Google Apps Script.
