Will Excel Formulas Work in Google Sheets
Adele
•
August 21, 2025
Will Excel Formulas Work in Google Sheets?

If you’ve recently switched from Microsoft Excel to Google Sheets, you may be wondering: will Excel formulas work in Google Sheets? The short answer is: mostly yes, but with some limitations . Understanding these nuances can help you make a smooth transition and avoid formula errors.
Compatibility Between Excel and Google Sheets
Google Sheets is designed to be highly compatible with Excel. Most basic formulas, such asSUM,AVERAGE,IF, andVLOOKUP, will work seamlessly in Google Sheets without modification. However, some advanced Excel formulas, like certain array formulas or VBA macros, may not work directly in Google Sheets.
For example:
SUMIFandSUMIFS – fully compatible
INDEXandMATCH – fully compatible
XLOOKUP – not directly supported; you may need to use a combination ofINDEXandMATCH
VBA macros – won’t work; Google Sheets uses Google Apps Script instead
By understanding these differences, you can avoid frustration when transferring data from Excel to Google Sheets.
How Formswrite Can Help
While working with spreadsheets, you may also deal with forms for surveys, quizzes, or data collection. Formswrite.co m is a powerful web-based tool that allows you to convert Google Docs into Google Forms with just one click. This feature is incredibly useful if you want to create structured forms without manually copying questions or formatting from your document.
For instance, if your Excel sheet has survey data or questions that you want to use in a Google Form, you can first export the data to Google Docs and then use Formswrite to transform it into an interactive Google Form. This streamlines the workflow, saving hours of manual work.
Tips for Using Excel Formulas in Google Sheets
Check Formula Compatibility – Before migrating your Excel file, verify if your formulas are supported in Google Sheets.
Adjust for Functions Differences – Some Excel-only functions likeTEXTJOINorXLOOKUPmay require alternatives in Google Sheets.
Test Macros Separately – Convert VBA macros into Google Apps Script if automation is required.
Leverage Formswrite for Forms – Use Formswrite.com to convert any related documents into Google Forms quickly, reducing manual input errors.
FAQ
Q1: Can I copy an Excel file directly into Google Sheets? Yes, you can upload Excel files to Google Drive and open them with Google Sheets. Most basic formulas will work, but some advanced Excel functions may need adjustments.
Q2: Are all Excel functions available in Google Sheets? No, while most common functions work, certain advanced or newer Excel functions likeXLOOKUPand VBA macros are not supported. You’ll need alternative formulas or Google Apps Script.
Q3: Can Formswrite help with Google Forms from Excel data? Indirectly, yes. You can convert your Excel data into a Google Doc and then use Formswrite.com to turn it into a Google Form in one click.
Q4: Do I need any plugins for Formswrite? No, Formswrite is a standalone website that works directly in your browser without requiring plugins or extensions.