In today's digital world, data is essential. Google Sheets is a useful tool for many tasks, but it can be confusing for beginners. This guide will help you learn Google Sheets and introduce you to a great alternative, WPS Office. Let's start from the beginning and become experts together!
Part 1 Create a Spreadsheet on Google Sheets
To create a new spreadsheet on Google Sheets, follow these steps:
Step 1: Start by visiting sheets.google.com and sign in with your Google account.
Step 2: Next, click on the Blank option to initiate the creation of a new spreadsheet.
Step 3: You're now ready to input data into your spreadsheet by clicking on a cell and typing in the desired information.
Part 2 Edit Your Spreadsheet on Google Sheets
Google Sheets provides a variety of tools to help you edit your spreadsheets. Here are some common tasks and how to perform them:
Editing Columns and Rows
Step 1: Select the column or row you want to edit by clicking on the column or row header.
Step 2: Right-click on the selected column or row and choose the appropriate option from the context menu. For example, you can insert or delete columns or rows, change the width or height of a column or row, or hide or unhide columns or rows.
Creating New Tabs
Step 1: Click on the + button at the bottom of the screen to create a new tab.
Step 2: Double-click on the tab to rename it.
Step 3: To move a tab, click and drag it to the desired location.
Formatting
Step 1: Select the cell or range of cells you want to format.
Step 2: Use the toolbar at the top of the screen to apply formatting options such as font style, font size, font color, background color, borders, and alignment.
Pro tips: Shortcuts Using on Google Sheets
Command |
Shortcut |
Cut |
Control + X / Command + X |
Copy |
Control + C / Command + C |
Paste |
Control + V / Command + V |
Undo |
Control + Z / Command + Z |
Redo |
Control + Y / Command + Y |
Select an entire row |
Shift + Spacebar |
Select an entire column |
Control + Spacebar / Command + Spacebar |
Part 3 Save and Share Your Spreadsheet on Google Sheets
To save and share your spreadsheet on Google Sheets, simply follow these steps:
Step 1: Saving Your Spreadsheet
To save a copy of your spreadsheet in a different format, click on File > Download and select the desired file type.
Step 2: Sharing Your Spreadsheet
Click on Share in the top-right corner of the screen.
Enter the email addresses of the individuals you want to share your spreadsheet with.
Choose the level of access you wish to grant: Can edit, Can comment, or Can view.
Optionally, add a message, and then click Send.
You have two convenient sharing methods:
Method 1: Share via Link - Grab the Sheet's URL, choose the share setting (view/comment/edit), and share the link with your desired audience.
Method 2: Share via Email - Enter the recipient's email address, select the share setting (view/comment/edit), and directly share the Sheet with them.
For advanced control and reviewing sharing settings, click the Advanced options button.
Part 4. Best Free Alternative to Google Sheets - WPS Spreadsheet
WPS Office stands out as a modernized and robust suite of office tools, and its spreadsheet application, WPS Spreadsheet, is a stellar alternative to Google Sheets. Here's why:
Full Office Suite: WPS Office encompasses word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations, providing a comprehensive set of tools for various tasks.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: It seamlessly works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, ensuring your documents are accessible across all devices.
WPS AI: WPS Office's AI-powered features streamline tasks like document conversion, PDF editing, and document sharing.
User-Friendly Interface: Its modern and intuitive interface enhances productivity, making it easy for users of all levels.
Cloud Integration: WPS Office seamlessly integrates with popular cloud services, allowing you to store, share, and collaborate on documents with ease.
Having used WPS Office extensively, I've found it to be a dependable alternative to traditional office suites. Its cross-platform compatibility and intuitive interface have greatly improved my workflow.
Templates website: wps.template.com
FAQs
What’s the difference between Google Sheets and Excel?
Google Sheets is a web-based, collaborative spreadsheet tool, while Excel is a desktop application. Google Sheets emphasizes real-time collaboration, while Excel offers more advanced features and is primarily used offline.
Can I open Excel files using Google Sheets?
Yes, you can open Excel files in Google Sheets. Simply upload the Excel file to your Google Drive, right-click, and select "Open with" Google Sheets. It will convert and open the file in the Google Sheets format.
Can I use Google Sheets offline?
Yes, Google Sheets can be used offline. You can enable offline access in your settings, allowing you to work on your sheets even without an internet connection. Any changes made offline will sync when you reconnect to the internet.
Summary
In this comprehensive guide to Google Sheets, we've demystified the art of spreadsheet creation and management, ensuring users of all levels can harness its potential. We've covered the basics of creating, editing, and sharing spreadsheets, offering tips and tricks to boost productivity.
Moreover, we've introduced a modern alternative in WPS Office, highlighting its versatility, cross-platform compatibility, and AI-driven features. As someone who has benefited from the user-friendly interface and efficiency of WPS Office, I can attest to its value in the digital workspace.
