how to insert a date picker in google sheets

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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16-01-2025

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Google Sheets doesn't have a built-in date picker like some other spreadsheet programs. However, there are several ways to add date-picking functionality, making data entry faster and less error-prone. This article will explore these methods, ranging from simple data validation to using add-ons for more advanced features. Let's get started!

Method 1: Using Data Validation (Simple Date Input)

This method is the easiest way to ensure users input dates correctly. It doesn't provide a visual date picker, but it does enforce date formatting and prevents incorrect entries.

Steps:

1. Select the cell(s): Click on the cell(s) where you want to input dates.
2. Open Data Validation: Go to Data > Data validation.
3. Choose Criteria: Under "Criteria," select "Date" from the dropdown menu.
4. Set a Range (Optional): You can optionally set a minimum and/or maximum date to restrict the allowed input range.
5. Show a warning or reject invalid data: Choose whether to show a warning or reject invalid entries completely. Rejecting is recommended for cleaner data.
6. Save: Click "Save."

Now, when users try to enter data in those cells, they'll be restricted to valid dates. If they enter an invalid format, they'll receive a warning or the entry will be rejected, depending on your settings. This is a good basic approach for simple date input.

Method 2: Using the TODAY() Function (Automatic Date Insertion)

If you need to automatically insert the current date, you can use the TODAY() function. This doesn't offer date selection, but it automatically populates the cell with the current date.

Steps:

1. Select the cell: Click on the cell where you want to display the current date.
2. Enter the Function: Type =TODAY() into the cell and press Enter.

The cell will now display the current date. This date will automatically update each time the spreadsheet is opened or refreshed. While this isn't a date picker, it's useful for automatically recording the date of entry.

Method 3: Employing Google Apps Script (Custom Date Picker)

For a more interactive experience, you can create a custom date picker using Google Apps Script. This requires some coding knowledge but offers the most flexibility and a true date picker interface.

Steps (Requires Coding):

This is a more advanced method requiring knowledge of Google Apps Script. The code below creates a simple date picker dialog box:

function onOpen() {
  SpreadsheetApp.getUi()
      .createMenu('Custom Menu')
      .addItem('Show Date Picker', 'showDatePicker')
      .addToUi();
}

function showDatePicker() {
  var html = HtmlService.createTemplateFromFile('datePicker').evaluate(); // Create a date picker dialog box using an HTML template (datePicker.html)
  SpreadsheetApp.getUi().showModalDialog(html, 'Select Date');
}

You would need to create a separate HTML file (datePicker.html) to design the visual aspects of the date picker. This method requires significant coding expertise and is beyond the scope of a simple guide.

Method 4: Utilizing Add-ons (Third-Party Date Pickers)

Several Google Sheets add-ons provide date picker functionality. These add-ons often offer more sophisticated features than the built-in options. Search the Google Workspace Marketplace for "date picker" to find suitable options. Installation typically involves adding the add-on and following the developer's instructions to integrate it into your spreadsheet.

Choosing the Right Method

The best method depends on your needs and technical skills:

• Data Validation: Simplest, best for basic date input and ensuring correct formatting.
• TODAY() Function: Ideal for automatically inserting the current date without user interaction.
• Google Apps Script: Most flexible but requires programming skills.
• Add-ons: Convenient option with pre-built date pickers, but requires installation and may have limitations.

By understanding these different approaches, you can choose the best way to incorporate date picking into your Google Sheets workflows and improve your data entry experience. Remember to always back up your work!