Setting the print area in Google Sheets is easy. Just select the cells you want to print, click on ‘File’, go to ‘Print’, and then set the print area. This will ensure you only print the information you need, saving you time and paper.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Set Print Area in Google Sheets
Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what setting the print area means. It allows you to select specific cells that you want to print, rather than printing the entire sheet. This is particularly useful when you have a large dataset but only need to print a portion of it.
Step 1: Select the Cells You Want to Print
Click and drag to highlight the cells you want to print.
Selecting the cells is the first and most critical step. Make sure you include all the necessary cells because anything outside the selected area won’t be printed.
Step 2: Click on ‘File’
Go to the top menu and click on ‘File’.
This will open a dropdown menu with various options for managing your Google Sheet.
Step 3: Go to ‘Print’
In the dropdown menu, click on the ‘Print’ option.
This will open a new window or tab with print settings for your selected cells.
Step 4: Set the Print Area
In the print settings, choose the option that allows you to set the print area.
You may need to adjust the scaling or layout options to ensure that your selected cells fit properly on the page.
After completing these steps, your selected cells will be set as the print area. When you hit print, only the area you’ve specified will be printed. This is a great way to save ink and paper, and to make sure that you’re only sharing the necessary information.
Tips for Setting Print Area in Google Sheets
- Always double-check the cells you’ve selected before setting the print area to avoid printing the wrong data.
- Use the print preview feature to ensure your print area looks correct before printing.
- Remember that you can set a different print area for each sheet within your Google Sheets document.
- If you need to print the same area frequently, consider saving a separate sheet with just the data you need to print.
- You can also use the ‘Print ranges’ setting to set multiple print areas if you need to print non-adjacent cells or ranges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set a print area for multiple sheets at once?
Unfortunately, you cannot set a print area for multiple sheets at once. You’ll need to set the print area individually for each sheet.
Can I save the print area setting for future use?
Yes, once you set the print area, it will be saved until you change it. The next time you go to print, the same area will be pre-selected.
What if I want to print the entire sheet?
If you want to print the entire sheet, simply do not set a print area, and the default will be to print the entire sheet.
Can I print non-adjacent cells?
Yes, you can use the ‘Print ranges’ setting to select multiple non-adjacent cells or ranges to print.
Is there a limit to how many cells I can set as the print area?
There is no specific limit, but the more cells you include, the smaller the text and data will appear on the printed page.
Summary
- Select the cells you want to print.
- Click on ‘File’.
- Go to ‘Print’.
- Set the print area.
Conclusion
Setting the print area in Google Sheets is a handy feature that can save you from unnecessary headaches. Whether you’re printing out data for a meeting, creating reports, or just need a physical copy of specific information, knowing how to set the print area is essential. Remember, it’s always best to preview your print area before hitting the print button to make sure everything looks just right. And don’t forget, you can always adjust and save your print settings for future use, making the process even quicker next time around. So go ahead, give it a try and see how much easier it makes your printing tasks. With these simple steps, you’ll be a Google Sheets printing pro in no time!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.