Searching all tabs in Google Sheets can seem like a daunting task, but with the right steps, it’s really quite simple. Here’s a quick rundown of what to do: open your Google Sheets document, use the ‘Find and replace’ feature, and then search across all tabs. After reading this article, you should be able to perform this task with ease.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Search All Tabs in Google Sheets
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand that Google Sheets is a powerful tool with many features, including the ‘Find and replace’ function. This function allows you to search for specific text or numbers across all tabs in your spreadsheet.
Step 1: Open your Google Sheets document
Open the Google Sheets document you want to search in.
Once you’ve opened your document, make sure you’re on the first tab before starting your search. This will allow the ‘Find and replace’ feature to search through all tabs from the beginning.
Step 2: Use the ‘Find and replace’ feature
Click on ‘Edit’ in the menu bar, then select ‘Find and replace’.
The ‘Find and replace’ dialog box will pop up. This is where you’ll input the text or numbers you’re searching for.
Step 3: Search across all tabs
In the ‘Find and replace’ dialog box, enter the text or numbers you want to find and check the box that says ‘Search using sheet names’.
By checking this box, you’re telling Google Sheets to look for your specified text or numbers in all tabs of your document, not just the one you’re currently viewing.
After completing these steps, Google Sheets will search through all the tabs in your document and highlight where the specified text or numbers are found.
Tips for Searching All Tabs in Google Sheets
- Make sure you’re on the first tab before starting your search.
- Double-check the text or numbers you’re searching for to avoid typos.
- When using ‘Find and replace’, you can also choose to replace the text or numbers you’ve searched for with something else.
- If you have a large spreadsheet, be patient as the search may take some time.
- Use the ‘Find and replace’ feature to make global changes across your entire spreadsheet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I search for multiple terms at once?
No, the ‘Find and replace’ feature only allows you to search for one term at a time.
Searching for multiple terms would require you to conduct separate searches for each term.
Will the search feature work on protected sheets?
No, if a sheet is protected, you will not be able to search for text or numbers on that sheet.
You would need to remove the protection or ask the owner of the document to do so before you can perform a search.
Can I use wildcards in my search?
Yes, you can use wildcards like * (asterisk) for multiple characters or ? (question mark) for a single character in your search.
Using wildcards can help you find variations of your search term more easily.
Is there a shortcut to access ‘Find and replace’?
Yes, you can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + H (Cmd + H on Mac) to open the ‘Find and replace’ dialog box quickly.
Keyboard shortcuts can save you time when you’re working with Google Sheets.
Can I search within formulas?
Yes, you can search within formulas by checking the ‘Also search within formulas’ box in the ‘Find and replace’ dialog box.
This can be particularly useful when you need to update or debug formulas in your spreadsheet.
Summary
- Open your Google Sheets document.
- Use the ‘Find and replace’ feature.
- Search across all tabs.
Conclusion
Searching all tabs in Google Sheets is a handy skill that can help you navigate through large amounts of data with ease. Whether you’re looking to find a specific piece of information or replace text across multiple tabs, the ‘Find and replace’ feature is your best friend. Remember to start on the first tab and check the box to search using sheet names to ensure your search is comprehensive. With the tips and frequently asked questions provided in this article, you should feel confident in your ability to search all tabs in Google Sheets efficiently. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch how quickly you can locate the data you need!

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.