Create spreadsheets for free with Google Sheets on your computer, Android, iPhone, or iPad. Google Spreadsheet works the same as Excel, and you can do most important spreadsheet tasks with it.
Before you start, you’ll need a Google account to use Google Sheets, Docs, and Google Drive. On a computer, visit docs.google.com/spreadsheets to access Google Sheets. If you have an iPhone or iPad, download Google Sheets from the App Store. On an Android, get Sheets from the Play Store.
Follow these steps to set up and start working on a new spreadsheet using either a computer or mobile device.
To create a Google spreadsheet using a computer, visit docs.google.com/spreadsheets and sign in with your Google or Gmail account for free access to Google Sheets. Upon logging in, you’ll arrive at the main directory where you can view your existing spreadsheets if any are already created.
Click the large red circle with a plus sign in the lower right corner to create a new spreadsheet, which will open in a new window or tab. In the top left corner, click on “Untitled spreadsheet” and type your desired name, then click OK to rename it.
Work on the spreadsheet using the header menu and toolbar, which offer functions similar to Microsoft Excel; changes are automatically saved at regular intervals. When finished, close the window or tab; everything is saved automatically and can be accessed again from Google Sheets or Google Drive.
To create a Google spreadsheet using the mobile app, launch the Google Sheets app, which has an icon resembling a file or spreadsheet; download it for free from your device’s app store if you don’t have it installed.
Sign in with your Google account by tapping “Get started” and selecting your account to link the app. After logging in, view your existing spreadsheets on the main screen.
Tap the large red circle with a plus sign in the lower right corner to create a new spreadsheet, then name it immediately and tap Create. Edit the spreadsheet using the on-screen toolbar and functions that mirror Microsoft Excel.
To exit, tap the checkmark in the top left corner of the header bar, followed by the back arrow; your changes will be saved automatically.
Pro tip: Explore Google Sheets templates by clicking the template gallery icon when creating a new sheet to quickly start with pre-formatted options for budgets, calendars, or project trackers.
Using Google Sheets provides a free, accessible alternative to paid software like Excel, allowing anyone with an internet connection to create and manage data efficiently. Its cloud-based nature means you can work from any device without worrying about file transfers or compatibility issues.
Collaboration is seamless, as you can share sheets in real-time with team members for instant feedback and edits. Beyond basic spreadsheets, Google Sheets integrates with other Google tools like Drive and Forms, streamlining workflows for personal or professional use.
This approach saves time and resources while promoting productivity through automatic backups and version history to track changes. Overall, mastering Google Sheets empowers users to handle everything from simple lists to complex data analysis without additional costs.
