5 Ways To Insert Date Picker In Google Sheets

When it comes to managing dates in Google Sheets, having a date picker can be a game-changer. Not only does it make it easier to select dates, but it also helps to reduce errors and improve overall productivity. In this article, we'll explore five ways to insert a date picker in Google Sheets, making it easier for you to work with dates.

Why Use a Date Picker in Google Sheets?

Before we dive into the different methods, let's quickly discuss why using a date picker in Google Sheets is beneficial. A date picker allows users to select a date from a calendar interface, rather than having to manually type it in. This reduces the risk of errors, such as incorrect formatting or invalid dates. Additionally, a date picker can help to improve data consistency and make it easier to perform date-based calculations.

Method 1: Using the Built-in Date Picker

Google Sheets has a built-in date picker that can be used in cells. To access it, follow these steps:

1. Select the cell where you want to insert the date picker.
2. Go to the "Data" menu and select "Data validation".
3. In the "Data validation" dialog box, select "Date" from the "Criteria" dropdown menu.
4. Click on the "Calendar" icon next to the "Start date" field.
5. This will open the date picker, allowing you to select a date.

Method 2: Using a Script

Another way to insert a date picker in Google Sheets is by using a script. This method requires some basic programming knowledge, but it provides more flexibility and customization options. Here's an example script that creates a date picker:

1. Open the Google Apps Script editor by going to "Tools" > "Script editor".
2. Create a new function that creates a date picker, such as:

function createDatePicker() {
  var sheet = SpreadsheetApp.getActiveSheet();
  var cell = sheet.getActiveCell();
  var datePicker = HtmlService.createHtmlOutputFromFile('datePicker');
  cell.setDataValidator(ValidationBuilder.withCriteria(ValidationCriteria.DATE).build()).setAllowInvalid(false);
  cell.setValue(datePicker.getContent());
}

3. Save the script and go back to your Google Sheet.
4. Select the cell where you want to insert the date picker.
5. Go to the "Run" menu and select "createDatePicker".

Method 3: Using a Third-Party Add-on

There are several third-party add-ons available that provide date picker functionality in Google Sheets. One popular option is the "Date Picker" add-on, which can be installed from the Google Workspace Marketplace.

1. Go to the Google Workspace Marketplace and search for "Date Picker".
2. Click on the "Install" button to install the add-on.
3. Go back to your Google Sheet and select the cell where you want to insert the date picker.
4. Go to the "Add-ons" menu and select "Date Picker" > "Insert date picker".

Method 4: Using a Formula

You can also create a date picker in Google Sheets using a formula. This method uses the DATE function to create a date picker. Here's an example formula:

=DATE(YEAR(TODAY()), MONTH(TODAY()), DAY(TODAY()))

1. Select the cell where you want to insert the date picker.
2. Enter the formula above.
3. Press Enter to create the date picker.

Method 5: Using a Google Forms Date Picker

Finally, you can use a Google Forms date picker to insert a date picker in Google Sheets. This method requires creating a Google Form and linking it to your Google Sheet.

1. Create a new Google Form and add a date question.
2. Go to the "Responses" tab and select "Get responses".
3. In the "Get responses" dialog box, select "Google Sheets" as the response destination.
4. Select the Google Sheet where you want to insert the date picker.
5. Go to the "Form" menu and select "Get responses" > "Insert date picker".

Conclusion

In this article, we've explored five ways to insert a date picker in Google Sheets. Whether you're using the built-in date picker, a script, a third-party add-on, a formula, or a Google Forms date picker, there's a method that suits your needs. By using a date picker, you can improve data consistency, reduce errors, and make it easier to work with dates in Google Sheets.

Gallery of Google Sheets Date Pickers

Gallery of 5 Ways To Insert Date Picker In Google Sheets