Merging sheets in Google Sheets can seem tricky, but it’s actually quite simple. Just think of it like combining different chapters of a book into one big story. In this article, we’ll go over how to merge sheets in Google Sheets step by step, so you’ll be a pro in no time!
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Merge Sheets in Google Sheets
Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what we’re trying to achieve. Merging sheets means taking data from multiple sheets within a Google Sheets document and combining them into one sheet. This is super handy if you’re trying to consolidate information from different places.
Step 1: Open Google Sheets
Open the Google Sheets document that contains the sheets you want to merge.
Opening Google Sheets is as easy as clicking on the app in your Google Drive or visiting sheets.google.com. Make sure you’re logged into the correct Google account that has access to the document you need.
Step 2: Identify the Sheets to Merge
Decide which sheets you want to combine.
You’ll see tabs at the bottom of your Google Sheets document for each sheet. Click through them to make sure you know which ones you’re planning to merge.
Step 3: Create a New Sheet
Create a new sheet where your merged data will go.
This is as simple as clicking the plus sign at the bottom of the screen or right-clicking an existing sheet tab and selecting "Add sheet."
Step 4: Use the ‘={}’ Formula
In the new sheet, type ‘={}’ and select the first cell range you want to merge.
This formula is like telling Google Sheets, "Hey, let’s grab this data and put it right here." So, if your first chunk of data is in Sheet1 from cells A1 to B10, you’d type ‘={Sheet1!A1:B10}’.
Step 5: Repeat the Formula for Additional Data
Below the first set of merged data, repeat the formula for the next cell range.
If you have more data to merge, just keep adding the formulas below each other. It’s like stacking blocks—keep adding until you have all the data you need.
Step 6: Adjust the Formula for Non-Adjacent Data
If the ranges are non-adjacent, use a semicolon in the formula to combine them.
Non-adjacent means the data isn’t next to each other. So, if you’re grabbing data from Sheet2 that’s not right below your first set of data, use a semicolon to tell Google Sheets to skip down. It’s like saying, "Skip a line, then start here."
After you complete these steps, you’ll have all your data neatly organized in one sheet.
Tips for Merging Sheets in Google Sheets
- Always double-check your formulas to make sure they reference the correct cell ranges. One wrong letter or number can throw off your whole sheet!
- Use the ‘=IMPORTRANGE()’ function if you’re merging data from different Google Sheets documents.
- Keep your original sheets intact until you’re sure the merge worked correctly. It’s like keeping a backup copy, just in case.
- If you have headers in your data, make sure to only include them once in the merged sheet to avoid duplicates.
- Consider using the ‘=QUERY()’ function for more complex merges, like when you need to filter or sort data.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I merge sheets from different Google Sheets files?
Use the =IMPORTRANGE() function to pull data from a different Google Sheets file into your current sheet.
Can I undo a merge in Google Sheets?
Yes, you can undo a merge by using the undo button or pressing Ctrl/Cmd + Z. But, it’s always good to have a backup just in case.
Will merging sheets remove duplicates?
No, merging sheets will not automatically remove duplicates. You’ll need to use the ‘Remove duplicates’ tool for that.
How can I merge sheets but keep the formatting?
When you merge sheets using formulas, the formatting won’t carry over. You’ll have to manually adjust the formatting in the new merged sheet.
Can I merge cells from different sheets?
Yes, you can reference cells from different sheets in your formula, but it will only combine the data, not the actual cells.
Summary
- Open Google Sheets.
- Identify the sheets to merge.
- Create a new sheet.
- Use the ‘={}’ formula for the first cell range.
- Repeat the formula for additional data.
- Adjust the formula for non-adjacent data.
Conclusion
Merging sheets in Google Sheets is a powerful way to bring together data from different sources and make it easier to analyze and share. Whether you’re consolidating reports, combining survey results, or just trying to get a clearer view of your data, knowing how to merge sheets is an essential skill for any Google Sheets user. With the steps outlined above and the additional tips provided, you should now be equipped to tackle any merging task that comes your way. Remember, the key to a successful merge is attention to detail and double-checking your work. If you encounter any hiccups, don’t hesitate to consult the FAQs or reach out to the Google Sheets community for support. Happy merging!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.