How to Convert Excel into Google Sheet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Richard O'Dwyer

If you're looking to switch from Excel to Google Sheets, you're in the right place. You’re reading a guide that’ll take you through the process of converting your Excel files into Google Sheets. With just a few clicks, you will start enjoying the benefits of Google Sheets, such as real-time collaboration and seamless integration with other Google products.

Let’s get into it.

Step 1: Upload Your Excel File to Google Drive

The first step in converting your Excel file is to import excel data and upload it to Google Drive. Here's how:

1. Open Google Drive: Navigate to Google Drive in your web browser.

2. Upload Your File: Click on the New button in the top left corner, then select File upload. Choose your Excel file from your computer.

Your Excel file will now be uploaded to Google Drive.

Step 2: Convert the Excel File to Google Sheets Format

Once your Excel file is uploaded to Google Drive, you need to convert it to a Google Sheets format. Follow the following steps:

1. Locate Your File: Find your uploaded Excel file in Google Drive.

2. Open with Google Sheets: Right-click on the Excel file, hover over Open with, and select Google Sheets.

Your Excel file will automatically open in Google Sheets. The file is now converted to a Google Sheets format.

Step 3: Save as Google Sheets

To ensure your Excel file is saved as a Google Sheets file, here’s what to do:

1. Click File: In the Google Sheets interface, go to the File menu in the top left corner.

2. Save as Google Sheets: Select Save as Google Sheets.

Now, your Excel file is fully converted and saved as a Google Sheets file.

Step 4: Verify Data Integrity

After converting your last Excel spreadsheet file to Google Sheets, it's important to verify that all your data and formatting have been preserved. Check the following:

1. Formulas: Ensure that all formulas have been correctly converted and are functioning as expected.

2. Formatting: Verify that cell formatting, such as colors and borders, has been retained.

3. Charts and Graphs: Check that any embedded charts and graphs are displayed correctly.

Step 5: Use Google Sheets Features

With your Excel file now converted to Google Sheets, you’ll be able to take advantage of its unique features:

1. Real-Time Collaboration: Share your Google Sheets file with colleagues and collaborate in real time.

2. Add-Ons: Explore and install various add-ons to enhance the functionality of your Google Sheets.

3. Integration with Google Products: Integrate your Google Sheets with other Google products like Google Forms and Google Data Studio for more advanced data management and analysis.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth transition from Excel to Google Sheets:

• Backup Your Excel Files: Before converting, make sure to backup your Excel files to avoid any data loss.

• Familiarize Yourself with Google Sheets: Spend some time getting familiar with the Google Sheets interface and features.

• Use Google Docs Editor Format: Enable the option to convert uploaded files to Google Docs editor format in Google Drive settings for automatic conversion.

Using Google Sheets Features

Once your Excel files are converted to Google Sheets, take advantage of the unique features and tools offered by Google Sheets:

Real-Time Collaboration

One of the standout features of Google Sheets is real-time collaboration. Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Share Your Sheet: Click on the Share button in the top right corner of your Google Sheets file. Enter the email addresses of your collaborators and set their permissions (view, comment, or edit).

2. Collaborate Live: Collaborators may edit the spreadsheet simultaneously, with changes appearing in real-time. Use the comments feature to discuss edits and ideas.

3. Version History: Use the Version History feature to track changes and revert to previous versions if necessary.

Google Sheets Add-Ons

Google Sheets supports a variety of add-ons that increase functionality. Some popular add-ons include:

1. Supermetrics: For advanced data analysis and reporting.

2. Autocrat: For merging data from Google Sheets into templates.

3. FormMule: For sending personalized emails based on Google Sheets data.

Best Practices for Security and Collaboration

When working with Google Sheets, it’s important to follow best practices for security and collaboration:

Sharing and Permissions

Control who gets to access and edit import data from your Google Sheets:

1. Share Settings: Click on the Share button in the top right corner to adjust sharing settings. Choose whether people wil be able to view, comment, or edit.

Data Privacy

Protect sensitive data in Google Sheets:

1. Use Encryption: Avoid storing highly confidential information unless encrypted.

2. Audit Permissions: Regularly review who has access to your Google Sheets and adjust permissions as needed.

Part 4: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Google Sheets

We address common questions about Google Sheets compared to Excel, functionality, and practical usage scenarios.

Why Do People Use Google Sheets Instead of Excel?

Google Sheets offers several advantages over Excel:

• Collaboration: Multiple users get to edit the same spreadsheet simultaneously, fostering teamwork and real-time updates.

• Accessibility: Being cloud-based, Google Sheets is accessible from any device with an internet connection, without software installation.

• Cost: Google Sheets is free to use, whereas Excel requires a Microsoft Office subscription.

• Integration: Seamlessly integrates with other Google services like Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google Forms.

What Is the Disadvantage of Google Sheets?

While Google Sheets is powerful, it does have limitations:

• Offline Access: It requires an internet connection for full functionality, unlike Excel, which is available offline.

• Advanced Features: Excel may offer more advanced features for complex data analysis and manipulation, particularly for heavy users of macros and advanced formulas.

• Data Privacy: Concerns about data security and privacy, as Google Sheets stores data in the cloud.

Do Excel Formulas Work in Google Sheets?

Many Excel formulas are compatible with Google Sheets, but there are differences:

• Common Formulas: Basic formulas such as SUM, AVERAGE, and VLOOKUP work similarly in both.

• Excel-Specific Functions: Some Excel-specific functions may not have direct equivalents in Google Sheets.

Can Excel Files Be Shared Like Google Sheets?

Excel files are sharable via OneDrive or email attachments, but sharing is more seamless and collaborative in Google Sheets:

• Google Sheets: Share via email, link, or directly collaborate with others in real-time.

• Excel: Requires saving files to OneDrive or sending as email attachments, with fewer real-time collaboration features.

What Are 3 Things You Can Use Google Sheets to Do?

Google Sheets is versatile for various tasks:

1. Data Analysis: Use pivot tables, charts, and filters for in-depth data analysis.

2. Project Management: Track tasks, deadlines, and progress with collaborators using shared sheets.

3. Budgeting and Planning: Create and manage budgets, financial plans, and expense trackers.

Is It Easy to Convert Excel to Google Sheets?

Yes, converting Excel to Google Sheets is straightforward:

• Upload to Google Drive: Upload your Excel file to Google Drive.

• Open with Google Sheets: Right-click on the file, and select Open with > Google Sheets.

• Save as Google Sheets: Go to File > Save as Google Sheets to save the converted file.

Is Google Sheets Good for Small Business?

Yes, Google Sheets is ideal for small businesses:

• Cost-effective: Free to use with basic features.

• Collaboration: Facilitates teamwork and real-time updates.

• Integration: Seamlessly integrates with other Google services for enhanced productivity.