Google Sheets FORMULATEXT Function: Syntax, Examples & Tips

cell:
The reference to the cell whose formula you want to display as text. This can be a single cell reference or a range of cells.

What is FORMULATEXT?

The FORMULATEXT function in Google Sheets is a useful tool that allows users to display the formula used in a specific cell as text. This function is particularly helpful for documentation purposes, allowing users to see the underlying formulas without having to click into each cell. It can be used to improve transparency in spreadsheets, making it easier for others to understand the calculations being performed.

In simpler terms, FORMULATEXT lets you show the formula from a cell in another cell, which can be useful for sharing and reviewing your work.

A Practical Example

Imagine you are working on a financial report in Google Sheets, and you have a cell that calculates the total sales for a specific month:

Sales Table:

You want to document the formulas used in the Sales column for clarity.

FORMULATEXT Formula

To achieve this, you would use the FORMULATEXT function as follows:

=FORMULATEXT(B2)

In this formula:

• B2 is the cell containing the formula you want to display as text.

Result of the Formula

When you apply the FORMULATEXT formula to the Sales Table, the output would look like this:

In this case, the FORMULATEXT function allows you to see the exact formula used to calculate the sales for each month.

Why Use FORMULATEXT?

FORMULATEXT is beneficial because it enhances the readability of your spreadsheets. It allows users to easily understand the calculations being performed without having to navigate through each cell. This can be particularly useful in collaborative environments where multiple users are working on the same document.

Key Takeaways:

• FORMULATEXT: A Google Sheets function that displays the formula from a specified cell as text.
• Documentation: Helps in documenting formulas for better understanding and transparency.
• User-Friendly: Makes it easier for others to review and comprehend the calculations in your spreadsheet.
• Common Use Cases: Ideal for financial reports, data analysis, and any scenario where formula transparency is needed.

FORMULATEXT is an essential function for anyone working with formulas in Google Sheets, providing a straightforward way to enhance the clarity and usability of your spreadsheets.

Happy spreadsheeting!