Ah, Google Sheets, that wonderful application that allows us to collaborate and work as a team. But what do you do when you want to maintain control over your file and prevent anyone from making changes without permission? Fortunately, Google Sheets offers options to define editing permissions and protect your data. Follow these easy-to-follow tips to keep your file secure and only allow trusted individuals to make changes. Even if you’ve already granted someone permission to edit your file, you can still revoke that permission if desired.
How to Protect Cells in Google Sheets
Once you’ve opened your Google Sheets file, select the cells you want to protect from changes. Click on the Data tab at the top, followed by Protect sheets and ranges. If necessary, you can enter a description, then click the green Set Permissions button.
Whether you want to grant or revoke someone’s editing permission, the steps are the same. Make sure the Restrict who can edit this range option is selected. Click on the dropdown menu to the right of the Only you option. Select the Custom option for more choices.
If you have already given permission to users to edit, they will be listed under the Choose who can edit section. Those who are allowed to edit will have a checkmark next to their name. To revoke editing permission from someone, simply uncheck their box and click the Done button.
It is also possible to allow everyone on the list to edit the file but display a warning message to them. This is useful to prevent accidental changes. Sometimes, a user may think they are editing a specific cell, but due to being in a hurry, they click on the wrong cell. To set up this warning message, go to Data > Protected sheets and ranges > Set Permissions > Show a warning when editing this range.
If you want to cancel a permission you have set, simply click on the permission you want to remove and click on the trash can icon.
How to Prevent Editing of an Entire Sheet in Google Sheets
If you simply want to allow someone to view a sheet without being able to edit it, you will need to replace the editing permission with viewing permission. To do this, go to Data > Protected sheets and ranges > Sheet > Set Permissions. In the next window, choose the individuals to whom you want to grant editing permissions (optional). Remember that you can grant or revoke editing permission in the Custom option.
Conclusion
Google Sheets is a great tool when you need to share files with your team. However, when you want to maintain control over the changes made to your files, it’s good to know these tricks. Define editing permissions specifically and only allow trusted individuals to make changes. For more tips on using Google Sheets and other helpful tools, visit Crawlan.com. And remember, with Google Sheets, you can take control of your data like never before!
