Summary
- Gemini in Sheets adds a Fix button that diagnoses formula errors.
- The tool doesn’t just provide the correct formula — it also shows you what was wrong, so you can learn from your mistakes.
- The feature is rolling out now on select Google Workspace and AI plans.
On June 22, Google announced new Gemini features for Google Sheets. Unlike many of the AI-powered updates we’ve seen, though, this actually looks helpful.
Related
I finally stopped writing messy Google Sheets formulas thanks to this one function
Readable enough to survive time, teammates, and future you.
Useful upgrades for Gemini in Sheets
Formulas made easier
Formulas are one of the most powerful functions in spreadsheets, whether Google Sheets or Excel. Even simple functions like QUERY can save you hours of manual work.
However, writing formulas can be tricky, and all too often you end up seeing a cryptic error message instead of the expected output. If you’re not already a formula pro, you can end up spending a ton of time troubleshooting. While that’s sometimes the best way to learn, it’s also not something you always have time for.
The latest Gemini update to sheets aims to help solve that problem. Now, when your formula encounters an error, a Fix button will appear. Click it, and Gemini will review the formula, diagnose the problem, and provide the correct formula. Gemini doesn’t just look at the formula — it also considers the surrounding cells and context. The aim is to remove “the barrier to writing complex formulas for advanced analysis right where you work.”
Notably, Gemini doesn’t just fix the formula for you. Instead, it “provides an easy-to-understand explanation of the core issue.” This means it actually doubles as a learning tool — you can see what you did wrong and hopefully correct the issue next time. Of course, if you just want the right formula, that’s there, too.
Feature availability
Rolling out Google-style
The new Gemini features are rolling out now, but the rollout is gradual. Google says it could take up to 15 days for the feature to show up on your account, so if you don’t see it right away, keep checking. While you’re waiting, be sure to check out the other useful features in Sheets.
It’s available for users on the following Google plans:
- Business Standard and Plus
- Enterprise Standard and Plus
- Google AI Pro and Ultra
- Google AI Pro for Education
- AI Expanded Access
Google says that, through July 15, Google Workspace customers will get “promotional access to higher limits for the improved Gemini in Sheets experience.” The goal here is to let people test the functionality. Unfortunately, after July 15, usage limits will be in place.
