Find out how to lock cells in Google Sheets

In truth, I am unable to be trusted with something good—and this extends to fantastically formatted, formula-filled Google Sheets spreadsheets. I get all click-happy, and the subsequent factor I do know, I am observing empty cells the place there have been as soon as data-filled cells. 

Positive, I may hit Undo, however that is useful provided that I do know what errors I have to undo. Or the individual sharing their spreadsheet with me may restrict my permissions to view or remark solely. However that is not sensible if we have to collaborate on the file. 

Google rightfully predicted there have been extra click-happy people like me, which is why they added the flexibility for customers to guard sure cell ranges and sheets from being tampered with. 

Here is how you can lock cells and sheets in Google Sheets. 

Desk of contents: 

Find out how to lock cells in Google Sheets

1. Open a Google Sheets spreadsheet. 

2. Spotlight the cell or cell vary you need to shield. 

3. Click on Information > Shield sheets and ranges. (Alternatively, right-click your choice, after which click on View extra [range] actions > Shield vary. 

   

4. Within the Protected sheets & ranges panel that seems, click on Set permissions. 

   

5. Modify the Vary enhancing permissions in one of many following methods: 

   • Present a warning when enhancing this vary. Different customers can nonetheless edit the protected vary, however they will get a warning first. It is a good choice for coping with click-happy collaborators.  

     

   • Limit who can edit this vary. You’ll be able to restrict this to Solely you. Or you’ll be able to apply customized settings, giving particular folks permission to edit the vary. 

     

6. Click on Performed.

7. Optionally, click on again into the protected vary you simply created within the Protected sheets & ranges panel, and enter an outline for the locked cells. That is particularly sensible should you’re managing a number of locked sheets and cell ranges. 

That is it. Now, when somebody who does not have permission to edit a cell vary tries to switch it, they will get a pop-up notifying them that the cell is protected and to contact the spreadsheet proprietor to take away the safety, if wanted. 

Find out how to lock a whole worksheet in Google Sheets 

As an instance you may have a number of worksheets in your spreadsheet and also you need to lock particular worksheets. Here is the best option to do it.

1. Click on Information > Shield sheets and ranges. Or right-click any cell, after which click on View extra cell actions > Shield vary. 

2. Within the Protected sheets & ranges panel that seems, click on Sheet. (In the event you do not see the Sheet tab, click on Add sheet or vary first.)

3. Choose the sheet you need to lock. 

4. Optionally, examine Besides sure cells to make sure cells throughout the locked sheet editable. 

   

5. Click on Set permissions. 

6. Modify the Vary enhancing permissions the identical method you’d to guard some other vary.

7. Click on Performed.

Find out how to edit locked cell settings in Google Sheets

Find out how to edit the cell vary of locked cells in Google Sheets

1. Click on Information > Shield sheets and ranges. Or right-click any cell, after which click on View extra cell actions > Shield vary. 

2. Click on the locked cell vary you need to edit. 

3. To change the vary of locked cells, manually enter a brand new vary within the vary subject. Or click on the Choose information vary icon, which seems to be like a grid, spotlight the brand new cell vary instantly in your worksheet, after which click on OK. 

4. Click on Performed. 

   

Find out how to change editor permissions of locked cells in Google Sheets 

1. Click on Information > Shield sheets and ranges. Or right-click any cell, after which click on View extra cell actions > Shield vary. 

2. Click on the protected sheet or cell vary you need to edit. 

3. Click on Change permissions. 

   

4. Replace the Vary enhancing permissions. 

5. Click on Performed. 

Find out how to unlock cells in Google Sheets

1. Click on Information > Shield sheets and ranges. Or right-click any cell, after which click on View extra cell actions > Shield vary. 

2. Click on the protected sheet or cell vary you need to edit. 

3. Click on the Delete vary or sheet safety icon, which seems to be like a rubbish can. 

   

Automate Google Sheets 

There are numerous methods to by chance mess up a spreadsheet—the method of getting into information does not must be a kind of methods. Whenever you use Zapier to join Google Sheets with the remainder of your tech stack, you’ll be able to robotically get information into Google Sheets and use AI to intelligently handle your information move.

Along with including new leads or kind responses, for instance, you’ll be able to orchestrate dynamic updates, set off contextual actions, and summarize or analyze entries robotically. Study extra about how you can automate Google Sheets, or get began with one in all these templates. 

Associated studying: 

This text was initially printed in February 2024. The newest replace was in November 2025.