Article

11 May 2025

Automate Google Sheets with Google Apps Script: A Beginner’s Guide

Discover how to use Google Apps Script to automate tasks inside Google Sheets—like sending emails, sorting data, setting reminders, or creating custom buttons. No add-ons needed, just pure code and control.

In today’s fast-paced world, businesses are looking for ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs. One of the biggest debates is whether AI automation outperforms manual work in terms of time savings and cost-effectiveness. While traditional methods have been the backbone of many industries, AI is rapidly changing the game. In this article, we’ll compare AI-driven automation with manual processes to see which one offers the most value.

How the Automation Works: Step-by-Step

1. Access Google Apps Script
Go to your Google Sheet → Extensions → Apps Script. This opens a code editor where you can write scripts that interact with your spreadsheet.

2. Automate Email on Form Submission
Example: Automatically send a thank-you email when a new row is added (via Google Form).


3. Add a Trigger

  • Go to Triggers in Apps Script dashboard.

  • Click "Add Trigger" → Choose sendEmailOnSubmit

  • Event: “From spreadsheet” → “On edit” or “On form submit”
    Why it's useful: Makes your code run automatically without needing clicks.

4. More Use Cases You Can Automate

  • Auto-sort rows when data is updated

  • Set custom reminders or deadline warnings

  • Generate reports into new sheets

  • Color-code cells based on values

  • Add custom menu buttons for one-click tasks

Why Use Apps Script in Google Sheets?

  • Free and Native: Built right into Google Sheets, no installs needed.

  • Full Custom Control: Build logic that fits your exact process.

  • Time-Saving: Automate repetitive manual tasks.

  • Great for Teams: Shared automation works for all collaborators.

  • Scalable: You can start with small tasks and grow into advanced workflows.

@flownestify 2025

© All right reserved

@flownestify 2025

© All right reserved