How do I copy to multiple sheets in Google Sheets?

You can copy data or entire sheets to multiple locations in Google Sheets through various methods, from simple manual copy-pasting to more advanced formula-based approaches. The most suitable method depends on whether you're copying an entire sheet, specific data ranges, or aiming for dynamic replication across spreadsheets.

Copying an Entire Sheet to Another Spreadsheet or Within the Same File

When you need to replicate a whole sheet, including its formatting, data, and formulas, Google Sheets offers straightforward options.

Copying a Sheet to a Different Google Sheet File

This method is ideal for moving or duplicating an entire sheet from one Google Sheet document to another existing one.

Locate the Sheet: Open the Google Sheet file containing the sheet you wish to copy.
Right-Click the Tab: At the bottom of your spreadsheet, find the name of the sheet (tab) you want to copy. Right-click on this sheet tab.
Select "Copy to": From the context menu that appears, hover over "Copy to."
Choose "Existing spreadsheet": Click on "Existing spreadsheet." A new dialog box will open.
Search and Select: In the dialog box, you can search for and select the target Google Sheet file where you want the copy to appear. Once selected, click "Select."

Result: The entire sheet will now appear as a new tab in the selected Google Sheet file, effectively copied across spreadsheets.

Duplicating a Sheet Within the Same Google Sheet File

If you need a copy of a sheet within the same spreadsheet, the process is even simpler.

Locate the Sheet: Find the sheet tab you want to duplicate at the bottom of your spreadsheet.
Right-Click the Tab: Right-click on the sheet tab.
Select "Duplicate": From the context menu, choose "Duplicate."

Result: A new sheet will appear right next to the original, named "Copy of [Original Sheet Name]," containing all the data, formatting, and formulas from the original.

Copying Data to Multiple Sheets Within the Same Spreadsheet

If you only need to copy specific data ranges (cells) to multiple sheets within the same Google Sheet file, there are efficient manual and formula-based ways.

Manual Copy and Paste to Selected Sheets

This is the most direct way to copy the same data to several sheets at once without repeating the paste operation.

Select Data: Go to your source sheet and select the range of cells you wish to copy.
Copy Data: Copy the selected data using Ctrl+C (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+C (macOS).
Select Multiple Destination Sheets:
- Hold down the Ctrl (Windows/Linux) or Cmd (macOS) key.
- Click on each destination sheet tab at the bottom of your spreadsheet where you want the data to appear. The selected tabs will change color to indicate they are grouped.
Paste Data: With multiple tabs selected, navigate to the first cell where you want to paste the data on any one of the highlighted sheets. Paste the data using Ctrl+V (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+V (macOS).

Result: The data will be pasted into the exact same range on all selected sheets simultaneously.

Practical Insight: This method is highly efficient for replicating standard headers, recurring tables, or consistent template elements across numerous sheets in a single action. Remember to deselect the grouped sheets by clicking on any single sheet tab without holding Ctrl/Cmd when you're done.

Copying to Individual Sheets

If you only need to copy data to a few non-contiguous sheets, or if the target ranges differ:

Select and Copy: Select the data from your source sheet and copy it.
Navigate and Paste: Click on the first destination sheet tab, select the target cell, and paste. Repeat this for each additional sheet.

Using Formulas for Dynamic Copies

For scenarios where you want the copied data to automatically update if the source changes, formulas are powerful.

Mirroring a Range within the Same Spreadsheet:
You can use a simple cell reference to pull data from another sheet. For example, on Sheet2, enter =Sheet1!A1:Z in cell A1 to copy all data from Sheet1.
- Example: If you want to copy the range A1:C10 from Sheet1 to Sheet2, go to Sheet2, click on cell A1, and type =Sheet1!A1:C10. This creates a dynamic link.
Copying Data from Another Google Sheet (Cross-Spreadsheet):
The IMPORTRANGE function allows you to import data from a different Google Sheet file.
- Syntax: =IMPORTRANGE("spreadsheet_url", "sheet_name!range_string")
- Example: =IMPORTRANGE("https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/123xyz...", "SalesData!A1:D50")
- You would then use this formula in A1 on each of your target sheets to dynamically pull data. Remember to grant access the first time you use IMPORTRANGE in a new spreadsheet.

Google Apps Script for Automation

For highly complex or recurring copying tasks involving specific conditions or large numbers of sheets, Google Apps Script provides a powerful automation solution. You can write custom scripts to copy data based on rules, iterate through sheets, and perform actions that go beyond standard formulas or manual processes.

Best Practices for Efficient Copying

Organize Your Sheets: Use descriptive names for your sheets to make selection and navigation easier.
Use Templates: For frequently copied sheet structures, create a "template" sheet and duplicate or copy it as needed.
Understand Data vs. Formula Copying: Be mindful whether you're copying static data (values only) or dynamic formulas that might need adjustment after pasting.
Save Regularly: Although Google Sheets auto-saves, be aware of what changes are being applied, especially when dealing with multiple sheets.