Basic Functionality
Manually inputting data and setting up calculations remains the same between the two. Double clicking a cell will allow you to add and edit its contents. Pressing the “=” sign on your keyboard will initiate the function mode and allow you to select which function to use from a list when you start typing. How these functions operate are the same as in Google Sheets.
Transferring a Google Sheet to Microsoft Excel
A Google Sheet is able to be downloaded to your computer in a compatible format with Microsoft Excel. Due to the extra functionality and power in Excel, this can be done with little to no loss in information.
Before you convert a Google Sheet file to Excel, it is recommended to download Microsoft Excel onto your computer.
Downloading a Google Sheet for Excel
- Open the file in Google Sheets you wish to transfer to Excel
- Select File → Download → Microsoft Excel
- You should see a notification about your Google Sheet file downloading
- Double clicking the downloaded sheet should automatically open it in Excel. If it doesn’t, right click the file → Open With → Excel.
Make any needed adjustments to correct charts or graphs.
If you are using the online version of Microsoft 365 you will need to upload the file before accessing it.
Core Differences
While both Sheets and Excel share much of the same base functionality, there are a number of differences between the two programs. Highlighted below are the key differences that will most likely affect those transitioning from Sheets to Excel. (These explanations assume you are using the latest version of Excel provided by the University of Connecticut).
Accessing a Spreadsheet
Unlike Google Sheets, Excel primarily exists as a program that is downloaded and installed onto your computer. You can open a spreadsheet by either double clicking it on your desktop or accessing it through the file menu in the Excel program. Spreadsheets created on the installed Excel program and stored on your University OneDrive can be accessed from other computers with access to Excel and your University OneDrive.
Accessing a spreadsheet from the desktop
Accessing a spreadsheet from Excel
Uploading and sharing a spreadsheet
Accessing a shared spreadsheet
Collaborating on a spreadsheet
Multiple users can collaborate on a spreadsheet that has been shared to all collaborators. While collaborators have the document open, any changes made to the spreadsheet will show to all others in real time.
Two people editing the same spreadsheet