How to Make a Pivot Table in Google Sheets?

What is a Pivot Table in Google Sheets, and why has it become the go-to tool for many professionals?

Picture dealing with countless lines of information without an efficient method to summarize or gain insights. Hectic, right?

Don’t worry: Google Sheets provides a powerful solution in the form of pivot tables. Whether managing sales figures or monitoring project outcomes, this feature streamlines data analysis with just a few clicks.

According to a report from IDC, companies worldwide produce more than 463 exabytes of data every day. This staggering figure highlights the need for effective data management tools, and pivot tables are among the most popular solutions. Google Sheets offers an easy method for constructing pivot tables, enabling you to efficiently arrange, sort, and condense your information.

The data analytics market is expected to grow to $550 billion by 2026. That growth reflects the increasing importance of tools like pivot tables in decision-making processes. A pivot table in Google Sheets allows you to transform messy data into clear, actionable insights. It is commonly utilized in finance, marketing, and logistics sectors, where information plays a vital role.

Unlike conventional calculations, pivot tables update automatically as new data is added. This feature makes them ideal for ever-changing data sets.

Let’s explore how pivot tables in Google Sheets can enhance your efficiency and enable quicker, data-driven decisions.

Table of Contents:

1. What is a Pivot Table in Google Sheets?
2. How to Create a Pivot Table in Google Sheets?
3. How to Edit a Pivot Table in Google Sheets?
4. How to Customize Your Pivot Table in Google Sheets?
5. What are the Advanced Tips and Tricks for Using Google Sheets Pivot Table?
6. How to Analyze Data with Pivot Tables in Google Sheets?
7. Wrap Up

First…

What is a Pivot Table in Google Sheets?

Definition: A pivot table in Google Sheets is a feature that efficiently condenses and examines extensive data collections. It allows you to group, filter, and sort information without complex formulas. You can swiftly discern sequences, analyze details, and cultivate comprehension.

Whether tracking sales or managing inventory, pivot tables make data handling efficient. They update dynamically as new data is added, offering a flexible solution for organizing and interpreting data.

Are you a beginner? No need to be concerned—this tool is ideal for newcomers as well as seasoned users.

For efficient use of pivot tables in Google Sheets, understanding its essential elements is crucial:

1. Rows: These act as the titles which align your content in a vertical row. Each row describes a different object or category.
2. Columns: Columns display your data horizontally. They group your information by specific fields for comparison.
3. Values: Values signify the particular data you intend to evaluate or calculate. This could be sums, averages, or counts.
4. Filters: Filters let you refine your data. You can target particular metrics by adding or omitting specific elements.
5. Data source: This is the main collection of information that gets passed to your pivot table. It encompasses all the original details you intend to investigate.

How to Create a Pivot Table in Google Sheets?

Now, let’s head to Google Sheets and create pivot tables.

And here is a fun fact: Creating a Pivot Table in Google Sheets is as easy as it can get. Yet the output would be powerful enough for almost all users of this feature.

Here is a simple guide for you.

1. Highlight your data: To select all content on a Mac, press Command+A.  For Windows, press Ctrl+A. Make sure each column has a title.
2. Go to the menu, Click “Insert”, and select “Pivot Table”.

3. Decide where to format your Pivot Table: Will you create a new sheet or use an existing one? Then, click “Create”.

4. Google Sheets will generate the pivot table within the selected area you specified. This is where you will work from.

5. Select “New Sheet,” then hit “Create,” as demonstrated below:

6. And voila, you see the pivot table readily displaying the category of data on the right-hand side sheet as below;

7. Next, click the “Add” button near Rows and select your primary row column (example: Quarters). This allows the pivot table to display useful information.

To hide totals, simply uncheck the “Show totals” box.

Repeat these steps to add more fields and finalize your pivot table setup.

How to Edit a Pivot Table in Google Sheets?

Once you make a pivot table in Google Sheets, the Pivot Table editor will pop up automatically. You can use this to tweak your table and create lots of reports.

What happens if you have to reopen the editor on this pivot table? All you have to do is hover over the pivot-table chart area and click “edit”.

In the editor, you have two options: follow Google Sheets suggestions or customize the table according to your preferences.

Google Sheets’ suggestions are based on your data. It often predicts the analysis you need. In the editing section, you’ll find an assortment of recommended reports.

Choose one, and Google Sheets will create the pivot table for you.

If adjustments are necessary, just modify the configurations in the Pivot Table editor.

Feel free to choose your desired information and performance indicators for a bespoke review.

How to Customize Your Pivot Table in Google Sheets?

Pivot tables transform unprocessed information into valuable insights. Here are a few of the strategies which can make them useful for you:

1. Open your Google Sheets document: Launch the document containing the pivot table you wish to modify. This is where the magic begins.
2. Click on the Pivot Table: Select the pivot table. The editor will appear on the right. It’s your dashboard for implementing adjustments.
3. Adjust your data selection: Modify your data selection as needed by clicking on “Data range” and choosing a different set, if necessary. This ensures you are working with the right set of data.
4. Add or delete rows: Click “Add” next to rows or columns and then insert your new entries. Click the “X” next to an entry if you wish for it to be deleted. From this, you can customize a table to your liking.
5. Utilize or eliminate filters: To refine the data, implement filters. Click “Add” beside Filters, choose a category, and set your criteria. This way, you get straight to the point.
6. Update the design and layout:

• • Revamp the table’s layout to enhance clarity.
  • Organize the information, adjust number formats, or incorporate colors to emphasize key aspects.
  • Rearrange fields by dragging them.

What are the Advanced Tips and Tricks for Using Google Sheets Pivot Table?

Here are some advanced tips for using Google Sheets pivot tables:

1. Calculated fields & custom formulas: Want more control over your data? Use calculated fields to create custom formulas. You can add percentages, ratios, or any custom metric. This gives you deeper insights beyond basic summaries.
2. Grouping data: Overwhelmed by too much detail? Group by date, product, or any field. It simplifies your data analysis and makes large datasets more readable.
3. Multiple data fields: Why analyze one metric when you can compare many? Adding multiple fields lets you see different data sets side by side. It’s perfect for comparing things like revenue and profit margins in the same pivot table.
4. Filter by condition: Need to zoom in on specific data? Filtering by condition allows you to show only data that meets certain criteria. You can focus on values greater than a number or specific text, making your reports more precise.
5. Slicer for dynamic filtering: Want easy control over your data? Slicers let you dynamically filter your pivot table with one click. It’s a simple tool that helps you adjust your view without changing the table.
6. Pivot table charts: Numbers can be hard to follow. Turn your pivot table into a chart for a more visual experience. Whether it’s a bar chart, line graph, or pie chart, charts make data easier to understand.
7. Refresh data: Are you working with live data? Refresh your pivot table to keep it updated. After a quick refresh, new data added to your sheet will instantly reflect in the pivot table.

How to Analyze Data with Pivot Tables in Google Sheets?

Pivot tables in Google Sheets turn messy data into clear insights. However, when visualizing data, Google Sheets can fall short. Its built-in charts and graphs are often limited and lack flair.

That’s where ChartExpo steps in. This tool enhances your data visualization, making complex insights easy to see and understand.

Let’s learn how to install ChartExpo in Google Sheets.

1. To start using ChartExpo, download it directly from the Google Sheets program. To do this, select Extensions from the top toolbar.
2. A menu will appear. Click the Get add-ons option.
3. Search for ChartExpo, and click on Charts, Graphs & Visualizations by ChartExpo when it appears in the results.
4. Click the Install button. You will have to confirm your Google account and accept some permissions.

ChartExpo charts are available both in Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel. Please use the following CTAs to install the tool of your choice and create beautiful visualizations in a few clicks in your favorite tool.

Example

Let’s analyze the data below using ChartExpo.

Quarters	Products	Orders
Q1	Apple	374
Q1	HP	909
Q1	Lenovo	353
Q1	Dell	878
Q2	Apple	591
Q2	HP	731
Q2	Lenovo	416
Q2	Dell	668
Q3	Apple	847
Q3	HP	979
Q3	Lenovo	718
Q3	Dell	459

• To get started with ChartExpo, install ChartExpo in Google Sheets.
• Go to Extensions > Charts, Graphs & Visualizations by ChartExpo > Open.

• To access the charts library, click the Add new chart button.

• Once ChartExpo is loaded. Click on “Comparison Bar Chart”.

• Select the sheet holding your data and select the Metric option. Fill in the numerical number (in our scenario, we’ll fill in Orders)
• Select the Dimensions button and fill in the dimensional data (in our example, we’ll use Quarters & Products).
• Click the Create chart button to complete the process.

• Your tabular data will turn into a Comparison Bar chart, as shown below.

Insights

• HP had the highest demand across all quarters.
• Lenovo struggled with low orders in Q1 and Q2.
• There was a slight improvement for Lenovo in Q3.
• Now, the store can compare different products over time, helping identify areas for improvement.

FAQs

How do I style a pivot table in Google Sheets?

To style a pivot table in Google Sheets:

• Select the table, then click “Format” and choose “Alternating colors”.
• Pick a color scheme or customize it.
• You can also adjust font size, bold headings, and apply borders for a cleaner look.

What is the main advantage of using PivotTable in Google Sheets?

The main advantage of using PivotTable in Google Sheets is its ability to quickly summarize and analyze large datasets. It helps you organize data, identify trends, and gain insights without complex formulas. This makes data exploration fast and efficient.

Wrap Up

A pivot table in Google Sheets is a powerful tool for summarizing large data sets. It helps you organize, group, and filter data with just a few clicks, making complex data easier to understand.

The pivot table updates automatically as new data is added, ensuring your reports are always up-to-date. You don’t need to adjust the table each time manually.

It also offers flexibility in how you view your data. You can choose rows, columns, values, and filters that suit your needs. This helps you create custom reports that fit your specific goals.

Google Sheets also provides suggestions for data analysis. This makes it easier for users who aren’t familiar with pivot tables. You can use these suggestions or manually set your parameters.

Additionally, pivot tables work well with charts for visual representation. Converting your pivot table into a chart can make your data more engaging and easier to interpret.

For more advanced analysis, consider using ChartExpo. ChartExpo offers easy-to-use tools for creating visual reports from pivot tables in Google Sheets.

Do not hesitate.

Install ChartExpo today to take your data analysis to the next level!