How to Share a Single Sheet in Google Sheets

Google Sheets, the powerful and versatile spreadsheet tool, does not provide a direct option to share only a single sheet within a document. However, through a few workarounds, you can selectively share a sheet while maintaining control over the rest of your data. Below, we will explore several methods to achieve this.

Methods for Sharing a Single Sheet in Google Sheets

Method 1: Copy to a New Spreadsheet

This method involves copying the specific sheet to a new Google Sheets document, sharing that document, and then managing permissions for each sheet accordingly.

Open your Google Sheets document. Select the sheet you want to share. Right-click on the sheet tab at the bottom and choose “Duplicate.” Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl Shift D (Windows/Linux) or Command Shift D (Mac). The new spreadsheet will open with the copied sheet. You can now share this spreadsheet by clicking on the “Share” button in the top right corner and entering the email addresses of those you want to share with.

Method 2: Publish the Sheet to the Web

If you need to share the sheet for viewing purposes, you can publish the sheet to a web page and share the generated link.

Open your Google Sheets document. Select the sheet you want to share. Go to File Publish to the web. In the dialog that appears, select the specific sheet you want to publish. Click Publish to generate the sharing link. Note that this link will allow anyone with the link to view the sheet, but not edit it.

Method 3: Use Filtered Views with Limited Access

If you want to share a sheet while controlling what others can see, you can use filtered views to show only the data you want to share.

Create a filtered view of the data. Share the entire document but instruct the recipients to use the filtered view. This way, they will only see and have access to the visible data.

Considerations and Drawbacks

Each method has its advantages and drawbacks. Here’s a summary:

Method 1: Copy to a New Spreadsheet

Advantages:

Бetter control over permissions for each sheet. Allows for editing.

Drawbacks:

Requires an additional spreadsheet. More steps involved in the sharing and permission management process.

Method 2: Publish to the Web

Advantages:

Simple and quick to execute. Generated link is easy to share.

Drawbacks:

Limited to viewing, no editing access. No direct control over who can view or edit specific sheets.

Method 3: Use Filtered Views with Limited Access

Advantages:

Retention of full document for other purposes. Control over what data is shared.

Drawbacks:

User must be informed to use the filtered view. No direct editing access for recipients unless the entire document is shared.

Conclusion

Sharing a single sheet in Google Sheets can be achieved through a variety of methods. Whether you need to share for editing or simply for viewing, by following the methods outlined here, you can maintain control over your data and share selectively. Choose the method that best suits your needs and context.