Prompt Advance logo

6 ChatGPT Prompts to Master Google Sheets

6 ChatGPT Prompts to Master Google Sheets

Google Sheets is a powerful tool for data management, collaboration, and automation. But what if you could supercharge it even more with ChatGPT?

In this post, I'll show you a series of ChatGPT prompts specifically designed for Google Sheets. These prompts will help you automate tasks, analyze data, and even generate complex formulas with ease.

Whether you're a data analyst, a business owner, or someone who just wants to get more out of Google Sheets, these ChatGPT prompts will revolutionize how you use this tool.

These are the best ChatGPT prompts for Google Sheets:

  1. Explain how the function works
  2. Explain how to use Google Sheet function
  3. Write Google Sheet commands
  4. Write Apps Scripts
  5. Perform complex tasks
  6. Turn ChatGPT into a Google Sheet

In the next section, we'll look at each aspect of using ChatGPT for Google Sheets (along with the prompt examples). And if you read till the end, you'll also find a tip to use these prompts more effectively.

Want to Master AI in 5 Days?

ChatGPT Prompts for Google Sheets

In this section, I'll show you some unique ChatGPT prompts that will make your Google Sheets experience even better. From automating tasks to analyzing data, these prompts will help you get the most out of your spreadsheets.

1. To Explain How the Function Works

The first prompt will explain a complex Google Sheets function. By using this prompt, you can break down any function into an easy-to-understand explanation.

Act as an experienced Google Sheet user. Provide a detailed, step-by-step explanation of how the specified [Google Sheet function] operates. This explanation should be accessible to users of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Break down the process into simple, easy-to-understand parts, and use examples to illustrate how the function can be applied in practical scenarios. Ensure to include any relevant tips or tricks that could help users maximize the function's utility. Highlight common mistakes to avoid and suggest ways to troubleshoot potential issues. Your goal is to empower users to confidently use this function in their own spreadsheets to improve their productivity and data analysis capabilities.
Save

This prompt was generated by our ChatGPT prompt generator.

Act as an experienced Google Sheet user. Provide a detailed, step-by-step explanation of how the specified [Google Sheet function] operates. This explanation should be accessible to users of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Break down the process into simple, easy-to-understand parts, and use examples to illustrate how the function can be applied in practical scenarios. Ensure to include any relevant tips or tricks that could help users maximize the function's utility. Highlight common mistakes to avoid and suggest ways to troubleshoot potential issues. Your goal is to empower users to confidently use this function in their own spreadsheets to improve their productivity and data analysis capabilities.

Absolutely, I'd be happy to help you understand a Google Sheets function in detail. Could you please specify which function you're interested in learning about?

Act as an experienced Google Sheet user. Provide a detailed, step-by-step explanation of how the specified [Google Sheet function] operates. This explanation should be accessible to users of all levels, from beginners to advanced. Break down the process into simple, easy-to-understand parts, and use examples to illustrate how the function can be applied in practical scenarios. Ensure to include any relevant tips or tricks that could help users maximize the function's utility. Highlight common mistakes to avoid and suggest ways to troubleshoot potential issues. Your goal is to empower users to confidently use this function in their own spreadsheets to improve their productivity and data analysis capabilities.

Absolutely, I'd be happy to help you understand a Google Sheets function in detail. Could you please specify which function you're interested in learning about?

2. To Explain How to Use Google Sheet Function

The next prompt will explain how to use a Google Sheet function. This can be a tricky part, especially for beginners. But with the help of this prompt, you can create step-by-step guides that anyone can follow.

Act as an experienced Google Sheet user. Provide a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to use a specific [Google Sheet function]. The explanation should be clear and concise, aimed at users who might not be familiar with Google Sheets. Include screenshots or illustrations to help visualize the process if possible. Ensure that the guide covers all necessary steps from accessing the function to applying it effectively in a spreadsheet. Highlight any tips or tricks for using the function more efficiently and address common issues or mistakes that users might encounter.
Save

This prompt was generated by our ChatGPT prompt generator.

Act as an experienced Google Sheet user. Provide a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to use a specific [Google Sheet function]. The explanation should be clear and concise, aimed at users who might not be familiar with Google Sheets. Include screenshots or illustrations to help visualize the process if possible. Ensure that the guide covers all necessary steps from accessing the function to applying it effectively in a spreadsheet. Highlight any tips or tricks for using the function more efficiently and address common issues or mistakes that users might encounter.

Certainly! Let's focus on the VLOOKUP function in Google Sheets, which is a powerful tool for searching and retrieving data from a specific column in a table. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to use it:

Step-by-Step Guide to Using VLOOKUP in Google Sheets

Step 1: Open Your Google Sheet

  1. Access Google Sheets: Go to Google Sheets and open your spreadsheet or create a new one.

Step 2: Understand the VLOOKUP Function

  • Purpose: VLOOKUP searches for a value in the first column of a range and returns a value in the same row from a specified column.
  • Syntax: VLOOKUP(search_key, range, index, [is_sorted])
    • search_key: The value you want to search for.
    • range: The range of cells to search. The first column is where the search happens.
    • index: The column number, in the range, from which to retrieve the value.
    • is_sorted (optional): Use FALSE for an exact match, TRUE (or omit) for an approximate match.

Step 3: Prepare Your Data

  1. Organize Your Data: Ensure your data is organized in a table format. The first column should contain the values you want to search.
  2. Example Setup: Suppose you have a list of products in columns A and B:
    • Column A: Product IDs
    • Column B: Product Names

Step 4: Apply the VLOOKUP Function

  1. Select a Cell: Click on the cell where you want to display the result of your VLOOKUP.
  2. Enter the Formula: Type the VLOOKUP formula. For example, to find the product name for a specific product ID: 
    =VLOOKUP("101", A2:B10, 2, FALSE)
    • This searches for product ID "101" in the range A2:B10 and returns the corresponding product name from column B.

Step 5: Evaluate and Adjust

  1. Check the Result: Ensure the correct value is returned. If it shows #N/A, the search_key might not be in the range.
  2. Adjust Parameters: Ensure index corresponds to the correct column and range covers all necessary rows.

Tips and Tricks

  • Absolute References: Use $ to make the range fixed, e.g., $A$2:$B$10, if you plan to copy the formula to other cells.
  • Error Handling: Use IFERROR to handle errors gracefully: 
    =IFERROR(VLOOKUP("101", A2:B10, 2, FALSE), "Not Found")
  • Data Validation: Ensure your search_key and data types match (e.g., both are text or numbers).

Common Issues

  • #N/A Error: Occurs if the search_key is not found in the first column of the range.
  • Wrong Column Index: Double-check the index value to make sure it's within the range.
  • Sorted Data: If using TRUE for is_sorted, ensure the first column is sorted in ascending order.

While I can't provide actual screenshots here, you can visualize these steps by imagining the layout in Google Sheets and applying the instructions directly. If you have any questions or encounter specific issues, feel free to ask!

Act as an experienced Google Sheet user. Provide a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to use a specific [Google Sheet function]. The explanation should be clear and concise, aimed at users who might not be familiar with Google Sheets. Include screenshots or illustrations to help visualize the process if possible. Ensure that the guide covers all necessary steps from accessing the function to applying it effectively in a spreadsheet. Highlight any tips or tricks for using the function more efficiently and address common issues or mistakes that users might encounter.

Certainly! Let's focus on the VLOOKUP function in Google Sheets, which is a powerful tool for searching and retrieving data from a specific column in a table. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to use it:

Step-by-Step Guide to Using VLOOKUP in Google Sheets

Step 1: Open Your Google Sheet

  1. Access Google Sheets: Go to Google Sheets and open your spreadsheet or create a new one.

Step 2: Understand the VLOOKUP Function

  • Purpose: VLOOKUP searches for a value in the first column of a range and returns a value in the same row from a specified column.
  • Syntax: VLOOKUP(search_key, range, index, [is_sorted])
    • search_key: The value you want to search for.
    • range: The range of cells to search. The first column is where the search happens.
    • index: The column number, in the range, from which to retrieve the value.
    • is_sorted (optional): Use FALSE for an exact match, TRUE (or omit) for an approximate match.

Step 3: Prepare Your Data

  1. Organize Your Data: Ensure your data is organized in a table format. The first column should contain the values you want to search.
  2. Example Setup: Suppose you have a list of products in columns A and B:
    • Column A: Product IDs
    • Column B: Product Names

Step 4: Apply the VLOOKUP Function

  1. Select a Cell: Click on the cell where you want to display the result of your VLOOKUP.
  2. Enter the Formula: Type the VLOOKUP formula. For example, to find the product name for a specific product ID: 
    =VLOOKUP("101", A2:B10, 2, FALSE)
    • This searches for product ID "101" in the range A2:B10 and returns the corresponding product name from column B.

Step 5: Evaluate and Adjust

  1. Check the Result: Ensure the correct value is returned. If it shows #N/A, the search_key might not be in the range.
  2. Adjust Parameters: Ensure index corresponds to the correct column and range covers all necessary rows.

Tips and Tricks

  • Absolute References: Use $ to make the range fixed, e.g., $A$2:$B$10, if you plan to copy the formula to other cells.
  • Error Handling: Use IFERROR to handle errors gracefully: 
    =IFERROR(VLOOKUP("101", A2:B10, 2, FALSE), "Not Found")
  • Data Validation: Ensure your search_key and data types match (e.g., both are text or numbers).

Common Issues

  • #N/A Error: Occurs if the search_key is not found in the first column of the range.
  • Wrong Column Index: Double-check the index value to make sure it's within the range.
  • Sorted Data: If using TRUE for is_sorted, ensure the first column is sorted in ascending order.

While I can't provide actual screenshots here, you can visualize these steps by imagining the layout in Google Sheets and applying the instructions directly. If you have any questions or encounter specific issues, feel free to ask!

3. To Write Google Sheet Commands

With the help of the next prompt, you can write Google Sheet commands. This will streamline your workflow and make your spreadsheets more efficient.

Act as an experienced Google Sheet user. Your task is to write a detailed command to perform [action] within a Google Sheets environment. This command should be precise, easy to follow, and applicable to the specific [action] you're tasked with. Ensure that your instructions account for variations in user familiarity with Google Sheets, providing step-by-step guidance where necessary. Include any relevant formulas, menu navigations, or shortcuts that will facilitate the completion of the task efficiently. Your goal is to empower the user to execute the [action] confidently, enhancing their productivity and proficiency with Google Sheets.
Save

This prompt was generated by our ChatGPT prompt generator.

Act as an experienced Google Sheet user. Your task is to write a detailed command to perform [action] within a Google Sheets environment. This command should be precise, easy to follow, and applicable to the specific [action] you're tasked with. Ensure that your instructions account for variations in user familiarity with Google Sheets, providing step-by-step guidance where necessary. Include any relevant formulas, menu navigations, or shortcuts that will facilitate the completion of the task efficiently. Your goal is to empower the user to execute the [action] confidently, enhancing their productivity and proficiency with Google Sheets.

Of course! To assist you effectively, could you please specify the particular action you need to perform in Google Sheets? This will help me provide a detailed and precise set of instructions.

Act as an experienced Google Sheet user. Your task is to write a detailed command to perform [action] within a Google Sheets environment. This command should be precise, easy to follow, and applicable to the specific [action] you're tasked with. Ensure that your instructions account for variations in user familiarity with Google Sheets, providing step-by-step guidance where necessary. Include any relevant formulas, menu navigations, or shortcuts that will facilitate the completion of the task efficiently. Your goal is to empower the user to execute the [action] confidently, enhancing their productivity and proficiency with Google Sheets.

Of course! To assist you effectively, could you please specify the particular action you need to perform in Google Sheets? This will help me provide a detailed and precise set of instructions.

4. To Write Apps Scripts

Apps Scripts can automate tasks and add new functionalities to your spreadsheets. But writing these scripts can be a challenge. And that's exactly where the next prompt comes in.

As an experienced Google Sheet user with scripting capabilities, your task involves writing a custom Google Apps Script to automate [action] within a Google Sheet. This script should streamline the process, saving time and reducing manual input errors. Your objectives include understanding the specific requirements of [action], coding the script in Google Apps Script language, ensuring it integrates smoothly with Google Sheets functionalities, and testing it for efficiency and reliability. The script should be user-friendly, allowing individuals with minimal technical knowledge to execute [action] with a simple trigger or command. Additionally, document the script with clear instructions on how to implement and use it within Google Sheets, ensuring it adheres to Google's best practices for Apps Script development.
Save

This prompt was generated by our ChatGPT prompt generator.

As an experienced Google Sheet user with scripting capabilities, your task involves writing a custom Google Apps Script to automate [action] within a Google Sheet. This script should streamline the process, saving time and reducing manual input errors. Your objectives include understanding the specific requirements of [action], coding the script in Google Apps Script language, ensuring it integrates smoothly with Google Sheets functionalities, and testing it for efficiency and reliability. The script should be user-friendly, allowing individuals with minimal technical knowledge to execute [action] with a simple trigger or command. Additionally, document the script with clear instructions on how to implement and use it within Google Sheets, ensuring it adheres to Google's best practices for Apps Script development.

To help you with writing a custom Google Apps Script for automating a specific action within Google Sheets, I'll need a bit more information about the specific action you want to automate. Here are a few key points to consider:

  1. Action Description: What exactly do you want the script to do? For example, do you want it to automate data entry, generate reports, send emails, or something else?

  2. Triggers and Conditions: How should the script be triggered? Should it run on a schedule, when a user makes a specific change, or upon a manual command?

  3. Input and Output: What data does the script need to work with, and what should the output be? Specify any sheets, ranges, or formats involved.

  4. User Interaction: How should users interact with the script? Do you want a custom menu, button, or another form of interaction in the Google Sheets UI?

  5. Documentation Needs: What level of documentation and instructions do you anticipate needing for users to implement and use the script?

Once you provide more details on these aspects, I can offer a more tailored script and instructions.

As an experienced Google Sheet user with scripting capabilities, your task involves writing a custom Google Apps Script to automate [action] within a Google Sheet. This script should streamline the process, saving time and reducing manual input errors. Your objectives include understanding the specific requirements of [action], coding the script in Google Apps Script language, ensuring it integrates smoothly with Google Sheets functionalities, and testing it for efficiency and reliability. The script should be user-friendly, allowing individuals with minimal technical knowledge to execute [action] with a simple trigger or command. Additionally, document the script with clear instructions on how to implement and use it within Google Sheets, ensuring it adheres to Google's best practices for Apps Script development.

To help you with writing a custom Google Apps Script for automating a specific action within Google Sheets, I'll need a bit more information about the specific action you want to automate. Here are a few key points to consider:

  1. Action Description: What exactly do you want the script to do? For example, do you want it to automate data entry, generate reports, send emails, or something else?

  2. Triggers and Conditions: How should the script be triggered? Should it run on a schedule, when a user makes a specific change, or upon a manual command?

  3. Input and Output: What data does the script need to work with, and what should the output be? Specify any sheets, ranges, or formats involved.

  4. User Interaction: How should users interact with the script? Do you want a custom menu, button, or another form of interaction in the Google Sheets UI?

  5. Documentation Needs: What level of documentation and instructions do you anticipate needing for users to implement and use the script?

Once you provide more details on these aspects, I can offer a more tailored script and instructions.

5. To Perform Complex Tasks

The following prompt will help you perform complex tasks in Google Sheets. By using this prompt, you can turn any complex task into a simple, step-by-step guide.

Act as a Google Sheet expert and perform a [complex task] using Google Sheets. You will be required to analyze the data, generate reports, and provide insights based on the information in the Google Sheet. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of Google Sheets functionality are essential for successfully completing this task.
Save

This prompt was generated by our ChatGPT prompt generator.

Act as a Google Sheet expert and perform a [complex task] using Google Sheets. You will be required to analyze the data, generate reports, and provide insights based on the information in the Google Sheet. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of Google Sheets functionality are essential for successfully completing this task.

I'd be happy to help with your Google Sheets task! To get started, could you please provide more details about the data you're working with and the specific goals or questions you have? For example, what kind of analysis are you looking to perform, and what type of reports or insights do you need? With a bit more information, I can guide you through the process or provide you with step-by-step instructions.

Act as a Google Sheet expert and perform a [complex task] using Google Sheets. You will be required to analyze the data, generate reports, and provide insights based on the information in the Google Sheet. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of Google Sheets functionality are essential for successfully completing this task.

I'd be happy to help with your Google Sheets task! To get started, could you please provide more details about the data you're working with and the specific goals or questions you have? For example, what kind of analysis are you looking to perform, and what type of reports or insights do you need? With a bit more information, I can guide you through the process or provide you with step-by-step instructions.

6. To Turn ChatGPT Into a Google Sheet

The last prompt will turn ChatGPT itself into a Google Sheet. This will allow you to talk with Google Sheets using natural language. Instead of writing formulas, you'll be explaining what you need to do.

Act as a Google Sheet. You’ll only reply with the text-based 10 rows excel sheet with row numbers and cell letters as columns (A to L). The first column header should be empty to reference the row number. I will tell you what to write into cells, and you’ll reply only with the result of the table as text and nothing else. I You’ll execute formulas if needed, and you’ll only reply to the result of the table as text. First, reply to me with the empty sheet.
Save

This prompt was generated by our ChatGPT prompt generator.

Act as a Google Sheet. You’ll only reply with the text-based 10 rows excel sheet with row numbers and cell letters as columns (A to L). The first column header should be empty to reference the row number. I will tell you what to write into cells, and you’ll reply only with the result of the table as text and nothing else. I You’ll execute formulas if needed, and you’ll only reply to the result of the table as text. First, reply to me with the empty sheet.

    |  A |  B |  C |  D |  E |  F |  G |  H |  I |  J |  K |  L |
----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|
 1  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 2  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 3  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 4  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 5  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 6  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 7  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 8  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 9  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
10  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |

Act as a Google Sheet. You’ll only reply with the text-based 10 rows excel sheet with row numbers and cell letters as columns (A to L). The first column header should be empty to reference the row number. I will tell you what to write into cells, and you’ll reply only with the result of the table as text and nothing else. I You’ll execute formulas if needed, and you’ll only reply to the result of the table as text. First, reply to me with the empty sheet.

    |  A |  B |  C |  D |  E |  F |  G |  H |  I |  J |  K |  L |
----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|----|
 1  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 2  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 3  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 4  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 5  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 6  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 7  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 8  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
 9  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |
10  |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |    |

How to Use These Prompts Effectively

The prompts I mentioned today are also available in our FREE prompt directory. You can check them out here: ChatGPT prompts.

ChatGPT prompts
Free ChatGPT Prompt Directory

How To Generate Custom Prompts

Didn't find the prompt you need? Try our FREE ChatGPT Prompt Generator to generate one for you!

ChatGPT prompt generator
ChatGPT Prompt Generator

Final Thoughts

ChatGPT prompts I've shown you in this post can be a game-changer for your Google Sheets experience.

These prompts can save you time, improve your workflow, and help you make better decisions in your data management.

So, go ahead, try these prompts out, and see how they can transform the way you work with Google Sheets.

Want to Master AI in 5 Days?

FAQ

Let's address some common questions about using ChatGPT for Google Sheets.

Can ChatGPT work with Google Sheets?

Yes, ChatGPT can work with Google Sheets. You can use it to generate content, analyze data, or even create scripts to automate tasks in Google Sheets.

How to prompt ChatGPT to create a spreadsheet?

To prompt ChatGPT to create a spreadsheet, you can simply describe the type of data you want to include, the columns you need, and any specific formatting requirements. For example, you could say, "Create a spreadsheet with three columns: Name, Age, and Occupation. Populate the spreadsheet with five rows of sample data."

Can ChatGPT read a spreadsheet?

Yes, ChatGPT can directly read the uploaded spreadsheet. However, you can also copy the text from a spreadsheet and paste it into the ChatGPT interface for it to process.