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The table creation feature in Google Sheets is on par with, if not superior to, Excel. In this article, Mytour shares tips on how to create tables in Google Sheets swiftly and with a polished look.
I. Determine the Purpose of Creating a Table in Google Sheets
Tables and statistical charts are essential in modern life. There are numerous reasons why we need to use tables for data entry and calculations, such as organizing tasks, analyzing information, managing data, filtering, and statistical reporting. Each individual has unique reasons for creating tables, but the common goal is to present information accurately and systematically.
In Google Sheets, users can utilize various functions to perform calculations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, averages, and sums. With its numerous benefits, tables in Google Sheets are becoming indispensable for everyone.
Previously, Microsoft Excel was the go-to software for creating tables on computers, but it required purchasing an expensive license. With Google Sheets, you can now create tables for free and enjoy cloud synchronization through your Google account.
II. How to Create Tables in Google Sheets
To learn how to create professional, visually appealing, and well-organized tables in Google Sheets, follow the step-by-step guide below!
1. Create Table Borders
By default, Google Sheets uses faint gridlines to help distinguish content between cells. When finalizing a table, the most important step is adding borders to highlight the main and critical content within the table.
Step 1: Use your mouse to highlight the table area where you want to add borders (1).
Step 2: Next, select the Border Creation feature (2) and choose the appropriate border style.
Step 3: Once the border is successfully created, the content will appear similar to this.
2. Align Content Within the Table
By default, Google Sheets aligns content to the left, which may not be suitable for text within cells. To adjust the alignment of content in the table, follow these steps:
Step 1: Select the cells, columns, or rows that require text alignment (1) and click the Alignment icon (2) on the toolbar.
In Google Sheets, there are three alignment options: Left align, Center align, and Right align.
Step 2: For table content, it is common to use Center alignment to ensure the content is displayed accurately.
3. Adjust the Size of Cells, Columns, and Rows
All cells, columns, and rows in Google Sheets are set to a default size. However, when entering text or numerical data, it is necessary to adjust the size of rows and columns for optimal presentation.
Step 1: Use your mouse and hover over the information bar in Google Sheets, and the resize icon will appear.
Step 2: Once completed, the table will look similar to the following.
4. Format Content Within the Table
Formatting content in a table involves adjusting fonts, sizes, colors, and more to enhance readability and professionalism. Some tips for formatting include using larger, bold fonts for headings, and italicized text for notes or supplementary information.
To format content within a table, select the content and use tools such as font size adjustment, bold, italic, underline, and text color.
5. Add Color to the Table
Adding color to a table helps highlight important content, creating emphasis and depth for the data. This step is typically done last to finalize a table in Google Sheets.
To add color, select the desired cells and use the fill color tool to quickly apply colors. However, avoid using too many colors to prevent visual clutter and maintain focus.
6. How to Apply Alternating Colors to a Table
Alternating colors are often used for long lists or enumerated content. This technique helps readers avoid confusion between rows, making the table look modern and precise.
Step 1: Select the cells where you want to apply alternating colors. Then, choose the Fill Color ➞ Alternating Colors tool.
Step 2: In the alternating colors design panel, you can either choose from preset color schemes or customize your own.
In this article, Mytour has outlined the fundamental steps to create tables in Google Sheets with ease. Wishing you a great day!
