Converting an Excel spreadsheet to Google Sheets allows users to take advantage of Google’s cloud-based platform and collaboration features. Excel users might find that they need to make their formulas and data accessible through Google Sheets to collaborate with team members who prefer to work in Google’s ecosystem. It requires a few simple steps to import an Excel file into Google Sheets and save it there.
Sometimes, users may notice that formulas from Excel don’t work exactly the same way in Google Sheets due to the differences between the two applications. However, many common Excel formulas have direct equivalents in Google Sheets, which means much of the conversion process is straightforward. There are some instances where functions need slight adjustments or the use of Google Sheets-specific functions to achieve the same results.
How To Convert an Excel Formula to Google Sheets (Step‑by‑Step Guide)
Moving spreadsheets from Microsoft Excel to Google Sheets is usually simple—but formulas can sometimes behave differently. While most Excel formulas work in Google Sheets, there are key syntax differences, function name changes, and feature limitations you should know about.
This guide explains how to convert an Excel formula to Google Sheets, common issues you’ll encounter, and how to fix them quickly.
Step 1: Upload Your Excel File to Google Sheets
The easiest way to convert formulas is to let Google Sheets handle the initial import.
Steps:
- Go to Google Drive
- Click New → File upload
- Upload your
.xlsxfile - Right‑click the file → Open with → Google Sheets
Google Sheets automatically converts most Excel formulas during import.
Step 2: Check Formula Compatibility
After conversion, review your formulas carefully. While basic formulas transfer perfectly, some Excel‑specific functions do not.
Excel Formulas That Usually Work
SUM(),AVERAGE(),COUNT()IF(),AND(),OR()VLOOKUP(),HLOOKUP()INDEX()andMATCH()
Excel Functions That May Need Changes
XLOOKUP()TEXTJOIN()IFERROR()(works, but behavior may differ)- Array formulas
Step 3: Replace Excel‑Only Functions
Some Excel functions don’t exist in Google Sheets or work differently.
Common Excel‑to‑Sheets Function Replacements
| Excel Function | Google Sheets Equivalent |
|---|---|
XLOOKUP() | VLOOKUP() or INDEX(MATCH()) |
GETPIVOTDATA() | Pivot references (manual) |
EOMONTH() | EOMONTH() (supported, but check syntax) |
CONCAT() | CONCAT() or TEXTJOIN() |
LET() | Manual restructuring |
Example:
=XLOOKUP(A2, A:A, B:B)
Converted to Google Sheets:
=INDEX(B:B, MATCH(A2, A:A, 0))
Step 4: Adjust Array Formulas
Google Sheets handles arrays differently than Excel.
Excel Example:
=SUM(A1:A10*B1:B10)
Google Sheets Version:
=SUMPRODUCT(A1:A10, B1:B10)
Or using array logic:
=SUM(A1:A10 * B1:B10)
Google Sheets often applies array behavior automatically, so double‑check results.
Step 5: Update Cell Separators (If Needed)
Depending on your regional settings, Excel may use semicolons instead of commas.
Excel:
=IF(A1>10; "Yes"; "No")
Google Sheets:
=IF(A1>10, "Yes", "No")
This is one of the most common conversion errors.
Step 6: Check Date and Text Functions
Date formatting and text handling can differ slightly.
Excel:
=TEXT(A1,"mm/dd/yyyy")
Google Sheets:
=TEXT(A1,"MM/dd/yyyy")
Always verify date outputs after conversion.
Step 7: Replace Macros and VBA (If Used)
Google Sheets does not support VBA macros.
Your options:
- Rewrite logic using Google Apps Script
- Replace macros with built‑in Sheets formulas
- Use automation tools like Google Workspace triggers
VBA‑heavy spreadsheets often require partial redesign.
Step 8: Test and Validate Results
After converting formulas:
- Compare outputs between Excel and Google Sheets
- Test edge cases and blank cells
- Check error handling (
#N/A,#VALUE!, etc.)
This ensures accuracy before sharing or automating.
Common Conversion Issues and Fixes
Formula Shows #ERROR!
- Check commas vs semicolons
- Confirm function names are supported
Formula Works but Returns Different Results
- Review array behavior
- Check date formats and locale settings
Formula Won’t Import at All
- Rewrite using Google Sheets‑native functions
Tips for Future Compatibility
- Avoid Excel‑only functions when possible
- Use
INDEX+MATCHinstead of advanced lookup features - Keep formulas simple and modular
- Test in Google Sheets early if collaboration is required
Final Thoughts
Converting an Excel formula to Google Sheets is usually straightforward, but complex formulas may need adjustment. By understanding function differences, array behavior, and formatting rules, you can ensure your spreadsheets work smoothly across both platforms.
Once converted, Google Sheets offers powerful collaboration, automation, and cloud‑based flexibility—often making the effort worthwhile.
Key Takeaways
- Importing an Excel spreadsheet into Google Sheets can be done with a few clicks.
- Most Excel formulas have equivalents in Google Sheets and require minimal adjustment.
- In some cases, Google Sheets-specific functions may be necessary to replicate Excel functionality.
Converting Excel Files to Google Sheets
The process to change Excel files into Google Sheets includes several steps. Each step ensures the data and formulas move smoothly from one platform to another.
Preparing for Conversion
Before starting the conversion, one must check that the Excel file’s data and formulas are compatible with Google Sheets. This involves reviewing any complex formulas, macros, or unique formatting that may not directly transfer. One should ensure all the necessary content is stored safely in the cloud on a platform like Google Drive.
Using Google Drive for Conversion
Conversion is straightforward when using Google Drive. First, upload the Excel file to Google Drive then right-click on the file and select “Open with” followed by Google Sheets. Google’s powerful cloud platform will automatically convert the file to the Google Sheets format, preserving most of the content and structure. If you want to keep your file in its new format, simply go to “File” then “Save as Google Sheets”.
Manual Conversion of Excel Formulas
Some Excel formulas may require manual adjustment to work in Google Sheets, as the syntax can differ slightly. Formulas such as “IF statements”, “COUNTIF”, and others might need slight modifications. For example, where Excel uses “IF”, Google Sheets often uses “IFERROR” to handle errors differently. Review and edit these formulas carefully after the conversion.
Post-Conversion Adjustments
After the file has been converted, it’s important to review it for accuracy. Formatting, functionality, and data structure changes might have occurred. One should adjust column widths and row heights, reapply conditional formatting, and verify the accuracy of all data. Collaboration settings can also be configured to share the spreadsheet with others easily.
