Here are the top 20 Google Sheets skills, along with explanations and learning resources for each:
1. Basic Navigation and Formatting
Explanation: Understanding how to move around in Sheets, format cells, text, and numbers.
Google's Official Sheets Training:
https://support.google.com/a/users/answer/9282962?hl=en
2. Data Entry and Management
Explanation: Entering data efficiently, using data validation, and managing data sets.
Coursera's "Google Sheets - Essential Training" by Google Cloud Training
3. Formulas and Functions
Explanation: Using basic functions like SUM, AVERAGE, and more complex ones like VLOOKUP or ARRAYFORMULA.
Udemy Course: "Google Sheets: From Basics to Advanced" by Kyle Pew
4. Conditional Formatting
Explanation: Highlighting data based on certain conditions to make data analysis easier.
Learning Resource:
YouTube: "Google Sheets - Conditional Formatting" by Google Workspace
5. Pivot Tables
Explanation: Summarizing large data sets to analyze and present data in a more digestible format.
Google's Help Center: Create and Use Pivot Tables -
https://support.google.com/docs/answer/1272900?co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop&hl=en
6. Data Validation
Explanation: Ensuring data entered into sheets meet specific criteria.
Google's Help Center: Data Validation in Google Sheets -
https://support.google.com/docs/answer/6313625?hl=en
7. Charts and Graphs
Explanation: Creating visual representations of data to aid in analysis and presentations.
Learning Resource:
LinkedIn Learning: "Google Sheets: Charts" by Kathryn Hurley
8. Importing and Exporting Data
Explanation: Techniques for importing data from various sources and exporting data in different formats.
Learning Resource:
Google Sheets Blog: "Importing Data into Google Sheets"
9. Google Sheets Add-ons
Explanation: Using add-ons to extend Sheets' capabilities, like auto-filling data or advanced analysis.
Learning Resource:
G Suite Tips: "Top 10 Google Sheets Add-ons"
10. Cell References (Relative, Absolute, Mixed)
Explanation: Understanding how cell references work to make formulas more flexible or fixed.
Learning Resource:
Google's Sheets Formulas Cheat Sheet
11. Array Formulas
Explanation: Using formulas that can perform multiple calculations over a range of cells.
Check out Ben Collins' Blog: Mastering ARRAYFORMULA in Google Sheets -
https://www.benlcollins.com/spreadsheets/array-formula/
12. Filter Views
Explanation: Creating custom views of data for different users or purposes without altering the original data set.
Google's Help Center: Filter Views in Google Sheets -
https://support.google.com/docs/answer/10274465?hl=en
13. Google Apps Script
Explanation: Writing scripts to automate tasks or create custom functions.
Learning Resource:
Google's Apps Script Documentation and Tutorials
14. Data Sorting and Filtering
Explanation: Organizing and viewing data based on specific criteria.
Learning Resource:
Google Workspace Learning Center: Sorting and Filtering
15. Collaboration Features
Explanation: Using comments, sharing settings, and real-time collaboration tools.
Google's Help Center: Collaborate on Files in Google Drive -
https://support.google.com/docs/answer/2494827?hl=en
16. Protecting Sheets and Ranges
Explanation: Securing certain parts of your spreadsheet from being edited by others.
Google's Help Center:
Protect, Hide, and Edit Sheets
17. Query Function
Explanation: Using SQL-like commands within Sheets to manipulate and analyze data.
Learning Resource:
Spreadsheet Point: "Google Sheets QUERY Function"
18. Macros
Explanation: Recording and running sequences of actions to automate repetitive tasks.
Google's Help Center:
Macros in Google Sheets
19. Data Analysis with Google Sheets
Explanation: Applying statistical and analytical functions to derive insights.
Learning Resource:
Coursera: "Data Analysis with Google Sheets" by Google Cloud
20. Integration with Other Google Services
Explanation: Pulling data from Google Forms, Calendar, or other Google services into Sheets.
Learning Resource:
Google Workspace Blog: "Integrate Google Sheets with Other G Suite Apps"
Additional Tips for Learning:
Practice: Regular use of Google Sheets with real or simulated data sets will enhance your skills.
Community: Engage with communities like Reddit's r/googlesheets or Stack Overflow for practical problem-solving.
YouTube: Channels like "Learn Google Spreadsheets" or "Prolific Oaktree" offer a wealth of video tutorials.
Remember, mastering Google Sheets is about understanding both the technical aspects and the creative ways to use these features for data management and analysis. As you learn, try to apply these skills to real-world scenarios or projects to deepen your understanding.
