In Google Sheets, you can create custom named functions using Google Apps Script, a JavaScript-based scripting language integrated into Google Workspace (formerly G Suite). These custom functions are often called “custom formulas” or “user-defined functions.” Here’s how you can create and use named functions in Google Sheets:
1. Open Google Sheets:
- Go to Google Sheets (https://sheets.google.com/) and open the spreadsheet where you want to create the custom function.
2. Access Google Apps Script:
- Click the button “Extensions” in top menu.
- Select “Apps Script” from the dropdown menu. And open the Google Apps Script editor in a new tab.
3. Write Your Custom Function:
- In the Google Apps Script editor, you can write your custom function using JavaScript. Here’s a basic template for a custom function:
javascript code
/**
* A custom function that takes parameters and returns a result.
*
* @param {parameter1} Description of parameter1.
* @param {parameter2} Description of parameter2.
* @customfunction */
function CUSTOM_FUNCTION_NAME(parameter1, parameter2) {
// Your custom function logic goes here.
// Return the result. return result;
}
- Replace CUSTOM_FUNCTION_NAME with the name you want for your custom function.
- Define the parameters your function will take, and provide descriptions for them.
- Write the logic for your function and return the result.
4. Save the Script:
- Click the floppy disk icon or use the “File” menu to save your script.
5. Close the Script Editor:
- Close the Google Apps Script editor to return to your Google Sheets spreadsheet.
6. Use Your Custom Function:
- In a cell where you want to use your custom function, type =CUSTOM_FUNCTION_NAME(parameter1, parameter2). Replace CUSTOM_FUNCTION_NAME with the name you provided in the script and provide the required parameters.
7. Press Enter:
- After entering the formula, press Enter, and your custom function will execute, returning the result in the cell.
That’s it! You’ve created and used a named custom function in Google Sheets. You can now reuse this function in other cells within the same spreadsheet.
Appropriate permissions to use Google Apps Script, and your custom function must adhere to the syntax and conventions of JavaScript. Additionally, you can extend the functionality of your custom functions by utilizing the various built-in Google Apps Script services and methods available.
