This week, Google Sheets announced the rollout of a highly anticipated feature: the ability to convert a block of cells into a table.
While spreadsheets are versatile, tables offer a structured way to organize data within them. Previously, Google Sheets users could apply filters, but table formatting had to be done manually, which was often tedious.
Now, Google has introduced a new feature, highlighted at Cloud Next, that allows users to convert a group of cells into a table with a single click. By selecting a data range and navigating to the “Format” menu, users can now choose “Convert to table” to automatically format and organize their data into a table with filters and applied formatting.
Google describes the new feature as a way to simplify and speed up spreadsheet creation by adding structure to unorganized data ranges. When cells are converted into a table, Sheets will automatically apply basic formatting, such as coloring filter headers, alternating row colors, and aligning data. Users can then customize column types to fit the data and utilize new table references for data interaction. A “Unified menu” with additional controls will appear above any table.
Furthermore, Google Sheets will support data grouping and aggregation in filtered columns, along with templates for pre-built tables that users can populate with their data.
This new feature began rolling out on May 8 and will be available to all users throughout May and June. Google Workspace admins cannot disable this feature.
Additional updates in Google Workspace include:
- The Gemini add-on for Google Workspace for Education
- The launch of the Gemini 1.5 Pro-powered side panel in Gmail, Google Docs, and more
- Enhanced Gemini features in Gmail on Android and iOS, such as improved Q&A, Smart Reply, and Summarize
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