In this tutorial, you will learn how to use the IMPORTRANGE function using the Google Sheet Query.
How to Use IMPORTRANGE with Conditions (Google Sheets Query)
The Query function in Google Sheets is the program’s most powerful and flexible feature. With this versatile tool, you can use data commands to change the data in Google Sheets. The majority of pivot table functionality may be duplicated by this single function, which takes the place of numerous others.
The IMPORTRANGE function imports a specified spreadsheet’s range of cells.
The advantage of using the IMPORTRANGE function compared to directly copying and pasting is that even if the formula and spreadsheet stay the same, the IMPORTRANGE function checks for updates hourly while the document is open. The functions must be reloaded if you delete, read, or overwrite cells that have the same formula. The document doesn’t require a reload on the IMPORTRANGE function if you open it and reload it.
Once ready, we’ll get started by utilizing real-world examples to show you how to use the IMPORTRANGE function using Google Sheets Query.
Understand Google Sheets Query
Before using an example, you will need to understand how a Google Sheets Query work.
=QUERY(data, query, [headers])
Google Sheets query requires 3 arguments:
- the data range you want to look at
- the query you want to run, in quotation marks
- an optional number indicating the number of header rows in your data
IMPORTRANGE Function using Google Sheets Query
Before we begin we will need a group of data to be used for the Google Sheets query formula.
Step 1
We want to import only data for Section A.
Step 2
To begin the query formula, we select an empty cell to input the formula. In this example, it will be A2. Then, we will insert an equal symbol followed by ‘QUERY’ and an open bracket. There will be a blue question mark at the side, you can click on it to reveal the arguments needed for this function to work.
Step 3
Next, we insert our argument. We will insert the URL as our first argument. Then, we will insert “Ori!A1:A6” which is our second argument. Always remember to close any formulas with a closing bracket to signify that the formula is now complete.
Step 4
Once you press Enter, only the column for Section A will appear. It will look something like this.
Take Note!
- The data returned from the Query function will not be formulated. You can edit the data to your preferences.
Summary
That’s all there is to it. You are welcome to copy the example spreadsheet below to see how it is done. The most crucial lesson is to enjoy yourself while doing it.
Example Spreadsheet: Make a copy of the example spreadsheet
In this tutorial, I covered how to use the IMPORTRANGE function using Google Sheets Query. Want more? Check out all the Google Sheets Tutorials.