Google Sheets - Efficient searching and replacing of data

In this tutorial, I will show you how you can effectively use the Find and Replace function in Google Sheets to clean up and edit your data. This function is particularly useful when working with large amounts of data in worksheets, such as in our hypothetical scenario at an airline where multiple flight codes need to be updated. You will learn how to search for and replace specific information in your data without having to change everything manually.

Key Takeaways

• The Find and Replace function helps you make quick adjustments to your data.
• You can select specific ranges in Google Sheets and edit efficiently.
• Filtering your data before searching can help you get a better overview.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare Data

First, open your Google Sheet containing the data to be edited. Let's assume you are working with data from an airline that includes information about flight codes and other operational metrics.

Step 2: Add Filters

To perform targeted searches, it's helpful to add a filter. Click on the filter icon in your Google Sheet and activate the filter for the column containing the flight codes. Here you can view the various flight codes.

Step 3: Gain Data Overview

Now that the filter is active, you will see an overview of the flight codes. In this example, we notice that all flight codes start with "RM." This is important as we will be making a specific replacement.

Step 4: Search and Evaluate

To get an idea of how many flight codes start with "RM," select the entire column and use the shortcut Control + F. This will open the search field and show you all occurrences.

Step 5: Begin Replacement

To replace the flight codes, click on the three dots in the Find and Replace window or press the shortcut Control + H. This opens the dialog for the Find and Replace function.

Step 6: Define Details

In the Find field, enter "RM" and in the Replace field, enter "RZ." Make sure to specify the correct range, from cell D3 to D202, where your data is located. This ensures that only the relevant cells are affected.

Step 7: Review the Results

Before making all replacements, click on "Find" to display the cells to be replaced. This allows you to check if all desired changes are correct.

Step 8: Perform All Replacements

If everything looks good, click on "Replace All." This will replace all occurrences of "RM" with "RZ." A fast and efficient way to clean up your data.

Summary

In this tutorial, you have learned how to use the Find and Replace function in Google Sheets to efficiently make changes to large amounts of data. By adding filters and selectively selecting cell ranges, you can quickly adjust your data without having to edit each cell individually.