5 Ways to Preserve Excel Formulas in Google Sheets

Transitioning from Excel to Google Sheets can be a seamless process, provided you know how to handle Excel formulas in this new environment. While both platforms share many similarities, there are significant differences in how formulas work, especially when it comes to preserving their functionality during conversion. Here are five effective strategies to ensure your Excel formulas remain intact in Google Sheets:

1. Use Google Sheets Compatible Formulas

Before you even begin the transfer, it’s helpful to understand which Excel formulas might not work directly in Google Sheets. Here’s what you can do:

• Identify formulas that are unique to Excel, like VLOOKUP or IFERROR, and find their Google Sheets equivalents. For instance, VLOOKUP can be replaced with INDEX and MATCH or Google Sheets’ own VLOOKUP if available.
• Check for deprecated Excel functions like SUBTOTAL which has different behavior in Google Sheets.
• Convert complex Excel formulas to Google Sheets compatible syntax where possible.

⚠️ Note: Some Excel functions are not supported in Google Sheets, so ensure to look up a conversion guide for exact replacements.

2. Employ Array Formulas for Multiple Outputs

Excel uses array formulas entered with Ctrl + Shift + Enter for performing operations that return multiple results. Google Sheets has introduced array formulas as a standard feature. Here’s how you can manage:

• Directly enter array formulas in Google Sheets. They no longer require the special keystrokes to input them.
• For existing array formulas from Excel, simply copy and paste; Google Sheets will often adjust them automatically.

3. Understand Google Sheets’ Volatility

Volatility refers to how often a formula recalculates. Excel and Google Sheets handle volatility differently:

• Excel’s volatile functions like NOW() or RAND() recalculate at specific triggers, whereas in Google Sheets, these functions recalculate every time the sheet is opened or edited.
• To manage volatility in Google Sheets:
  • Avoid using volatile functions if real-time updates are not necessary.
  • Use IF() to control when a volatile function should recalculate.

4. Leverage Named Ranges for Clarity

Named ranges in Excel can make formulas easier to read and maintain. Here’s how to use them effectively in Google Sheets:

• Define named ranges in Google Sheets the same way as in Excel.
• Ensure all references in your formulas use these named ranges for better clarity and reduced errors.

📝 Note: Google Sheets automatically adjusts named ranges when cells are moved or data is inserted, which can sometimes alter formulas. Keep an eye on these changes.

5. Backup and Audit Your Formulas

After converting your Excel files to Google Sheets, it’s crucial to verify that formulas are functioning as expected:

• Create a backup of your Excel file to revert back if needed.
• Use tools like Google Sheets’ built-in audit capabilities to trace errors or dependencies.
• Manually review complex formulas for accuracy or differences in output.

The transition from Excel to Google Sheets doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding how formulas work in both applications, converting your spreadsheets, and employing these strategies, you can ensure that your data remains accurate and your productivity stays high. Remember to keep a backup, audit your formulas, and leverage Google Sheets’ unique features to enhance your workflow. In summary, here are the key points:

• Convert incompatible Excel formulas to their Google Sheets equivalents.
• Use array formulas naturally in Google Sheets for operations yielding multiple results.
• Manage formula volatility to control recalculations.
• Use named ranges to maintain formula clarity.
• Backup your Excel files and audit formulas in Google Sheets for accuracy.

Why do some Excel formulas not work in Google Sheets?

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Some Excel formulas are not supported in Google Sheets due to differences in functionality or simply because Google Sheets does not recognize them. For example, Excel has unique functions like XLOOKUP, which Google Sheets currently lacks. Converting or using alternative functions is necessary to preserve the functionality.

Can I use Excel VBA in Google Sheets?

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No, Excel VBA scripts do not work directly in Google Sheets. However, Google Sheets offers Google Apps Script, which is its own scripting language based on JavaScript. You would need to rewrite your VBA code in Google Apps Script to automate tasks in Google Sheets.

How can I share my Google Sheets workbook with others while keeping my formulas?

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When sharing your Google Sheets workbook, the formulas you have used will be preserved. To maintain formula integrity:

• Only share with those who should edit the sheet. Others can view or comment.
• Use permissions to control editing access, ensuring formulas are not altered accidentally.