Can't use getValues() with IMPORTRANGE

ONLINECAST

2 min read

·

06-10-2024

10

0

Share

Why You Can't Use getValues() Directly with IMPORTRANGE in Google Sheets

Importing data from another spreadsheet using IMPORTRANGE is a common task in Google Sheets. However, you might encounter a frustrating issue: you can't directly apply the getValues() function to an IMPORTRANGE result.

The Problem:

Imagine you're importing data from a spreadsheet called "Source Spreadsheet" using IMPORTRANGE("source spreadsheet key", "Sheet1!A1:B10"). Now, you want to work with the imported data using the getValues() function.

The Code:

var importedData = SpreadsheetApp.getActiveSheet().getRange('A1').getValue();
var values = importedData.getValues(); // This line throws an error!

This code will throw an error because getValues() is designed to work with a Range object, while IMPORTRANGE returns a Reference object.

The Solution:

To access the values of your imported data, you need to use the getRange() function on the IMPORTRANGE result:

var importedData = SpreadsheetApp.getActiveSheet().getRange('A1').getValue();
var range = SpreadsheetApp.getActiveSheet().getRange(importedData); // Get the range object 
var values = range.getValues(); // Now you can use getValues() 

Explanation:

1. IMPORTRANGE returns a reference to the data from the source spreadsheet. It's a placeholder that tells Google Sheets where to get the actual data.
2. When you use getRange() on the IMPORTRANGE result, Google Sheets resolves the reference and retrieves the actual range from the source spreadsheet.
3. Now, you have a Range object representing the imported data, which you can use with functions like getValues(), getFormula(), etc.

Additional Insights:

• IMPORTRANGE can also import data from other Google Drive files, not just spreadsheets.
• The IMPORTRANGE function can be used in various ways, including:
  • Importing data from a specific sheet or range.
  • Fetching data from another user's spreadsheet.
  • Importing only certain columns or rows.

Tips:

• Use IMPORTRANGE with caution, as it can impact your spreadsheet's performance if you import large amounts of data.
• If you're frequently importing data from the same spreadsheet, consider using a formula instead of IMPORTRANGE for better performance.

References:

• Google Sheets IMPORTRANGE Function
• Google Sheets getRange() Function

By understanding the differences between Range and Reference objects, you can avoid common pitfalls and work efficiently with imported data in Google Sheets.