FORMULATEXT

The FORMULATEXT function in Google Sheets returns the formula used in a specified cell as a text string, rather than its calculated value. It's a great debugging and documentation tool for anyone auditing or explaining complex spreadsheets. Dive into our comprehensive guide to learn how it works.

Parameters

• cell: The reference to a cell that contains a formula.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

1. Displaying the formula in a cell:

   • Example: If A1 contains the formula =SUM(B1:B10), then =FORMULATEXT(A1) will return the text "=SUM(B1:B10)".

2. Auditing a spreadsheet:

   • Example: Place =FORMULATEXT(C2) in a neighboring column to display the formula behind each row's calculated result, making it easy to review logic without clicking into each cell.

Use Cases and Scenarios

1. Spreadsheet Auditing: Quickly review and document all formulas used across a workbook.
2. Debugging: Compare expected versus actual formulas to spot copy-paste or reference errors.
3. Teaching and Documentation: Show formula logic alongside results when training others on how a sheet works.

Related Functions

• ISFORMULA: Checks whether a cell contains a formula.
• CELL: Returns information about the position, formatting, or content of a cell.

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