How to Lock a Row in Google Sheets

Why should I lock a row in Google Sheets?

Locking a row in Google Sheets is beneficial when you want to preserve specific data or formulas from being changed, especially in shared spreadsheets where multiple users have access. By locking a row, you ensure data integrity and prevent accidental modifications.

How to lock a row in Google Sheets?

To lock a row in Google Sheets, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open your Google Sheets document.

Step 2: Select the row you want to lock by clicking on the row number on the left-hand side.

Step 3: Right-click on the selected row and choose “Protect range.”

Step 4: In the sidebar that appears on the right, click on the “Set permissions” button.

Step 5: Under the “Restrict who can edit this range” section, select the desired options. You can choose to allow specific users or groups only to edit the row or make it view-only for everyone except yourself.

Step 6: Click “Done” to apply the changes.

Can I lock multiple rows at once?

Yes, you can lock multiple rows simultaneously in Google Sheets. To do so, hold the “Shift” key on your keyboard while selecting the rows you want to lock. Then, follow the same steps mentioned above to protect the range and set the permissions for the selected rows.

How can I unlock a locked row?

If you need to make changes to a locked row or unlock it completely, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open your Google Sheets document.

Step 2: Right-click on the protected row and choose “Unprotect range.”

Step 3: Confirm the action by clicking “Remove protection.”

Your locked row is now unlocked, allowing you to edit it freely.

Can I lock columns or cells in Google Sheets?

Yes, Google Sheets allows you to lock both columns and cells in addition to locking rows. To do so, select the desired columns or cells instead of rows, and follow the same steps mentioned earlier to protect and set permissions on the range.

Is there any way to lock rows and still allow data entry?

Yes, Google Sheets provides an option called “Range editing” that allows you to lock a row while still enabling data entry in unprotected cells within that range. To enable this feature, select the desired row(s) and follow the steps mentioned earlier for protecting the range. In the permissions sidebar, select “Only this range” under “Restrict who can edit this range” and leave the “Includes editing” option checked.

In conclusion, locking rows in Google Sheets is a powerful way to protect your data from unintended modifications while collaborating with others. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can safeguard your important information, formulas, and calculations, ensuring the integrity of your spreadsheets. So go ahead and start locking those rows in Google Sheets today!