Want to ask questions about your spreadsheet and get answers instantly? In 2026, there are two common paths: Google’s built-in Ask Gemini (for eligible Workspace plans) and AI for Sheets Sheet Agent (add-on workflow).
This guide focuses on the add-on workflow and explains when to use each option, so you can get reliable insights instead of vague answers.
Quick start: chat with your sheet using Sheet Agent
- Install AI for Sheets from Google Workspace Marketplace.
- In Google Sheets, open Extensions → AI for Sheets → Sheet Agent. (Older docs/screenshots may call this Full Sheet Analysis.)
- Ask your question in plain English, such as: “Summarize sales trends for the last 90 days and flag anomalies.”
- Optional: attach up to 3 supporting files (PDF/image) in the session.
- Insert output back into your sheet and refine with follow-up prompts.
Prompts that work better
- Summary: “Summarize Q4 revenue by product line in 5 bullets.”
- Decision support: “Give me 3 actions to improve low-margin SKUs.”
- Forecast framing: “Estimate next month trend using last 12 weeks and list assumptions.”
- Data quality: “Find missing values, duplicates, and suspicious outliers.”
Tip: include timeframe + metric + output format in one prompt. That usually improves answer quality and reduces back-and-forth.
Ask Gemini vs AI for Sheets Sheet Agent
| Option | Best for | How to open |
|---|---|---|
| Ask Gemini (Google) | Native Workspace workflow on eligible plans | Top-right Ask Gemini in Google Sheets |
| Sheet Agent (AI for Sheets) | Add-on workflow + formula ecosystem | Extensions → AI for Sheets → Sheet Agent |
Common reasons answers feel wrong
- The prompt is broad (no date range, KPI, or output format).
- Headers are unclear or mixed with notes/blank columns.
- You asked for forecasting without enough historical rows.
- Expected source context (PDF/image) was not attached.
If this happens, tighten the prompt and clarify the target range first. You can also review common issues and formula errors.
Related guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Full Sheet Analysis the same as Sheet Agent?
Yes. In AI for Sheets, the feature has been renamed to Sheet Agent in newer UI and docs.
How many files can I attach while chatting with my sheet?
You can attach up to 3 files (PDF/images) in a session for added context.
Do I need a Gemini API key to start?
No. Most users can start with the add-on directly without managing their own API key.
Can I use Google’s built-in Ask Gemini instead of an add-on?
Yes, if your Google Workspace/Google AI plan includes it. Use the top-right Ask Gemini button in Sheets.