How to Use the Google Sheets Filter

Key takeaways

• When you have a large data set in Google Sheets, the filter function can be particularly helpful to identify data that meets certain criteria.

• The filter function in Google Sheets has four different categories, allowing you to further customize them to find what you need.

• Once you’re done, you can remove the filter to return to the original datasheet.

Learn how to use the Google Sheets filter function to work with your data. Afterward, build your abilities in this area by learning more about filtering, summarizing, and protecting data with the Google Sheets course.

How to use the filter function in Google Sheets: 3 steps

Follow the steps below to apply and eventually remove a filter in Google Sheets.

1. Select the data you want to filter.

First, you’ll need to choose which set of data you’d like to filter. Google Sheets allows you to select a particular set of columns or the entire data set. 

For this example, let’s filter the first column of this sheet, which is A1 to A19. If you’d like to select the entire data set, click on the blank square to the top left of the sheet. This will highlight the entire sheet.

2. Choose the filter option you want to use.

Click on Data > Create a filter. Click on the filter dropdown arrow at the top of the column. You can filter for different categories: 

• Conditions: Choose a set condition or write your own. 

• Values: Uncheck the box next to the data point you want to hide.

• Search: Type what you’re looking for into the search box.

• Colors: Choose which text or fill color you want to filter by. 

For this example, let’s say you want to see every movie that uses the word “the” in the title. You would select Filter by condition > text contains > the.

Once you select OK, the results will appear.

3. Remove filters.

Once finished, select Data > Remove filter.

Slicer: related filter tasks

The slicer tool is similar to the filter tool, except it acts as an embedded toolbar that you and others can use to filter cells. Click on Data > Add a slicer. Then, follow the same steps as you did to create a filter.

Common Google Sheets filter issues

An issue you might run into with Google Sheets filters is that they affect the way other collaborators view the spreadsheet. One solution is to go to Data > Create filter view when creating a filter and proceed. You can also save your filter for future use by clicking Save view when you're done.

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