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Google Sheets Just Got an AI Upgrade

  • Writer: Patrick Law
    Patrick Law
  • 16 hours ago
  • 2 min read

AI is now built right into Google Sheets—and engineers are starting to use it in creative ways. The new =AI() function lets you interact with a large language model (LLM) directly in your spreadsheet. No plugins. No code. Just instant answers.

If you’ve ever spent hours manually categorizing, labeling, or explaining engineering formulas—this tool can cut that time to seconds.


Key Benefits of the =AI() Function in Engineering Workflows

Engineers can now pair spreadsheet logic with AI text generation. Here’s what makes this a game-changer:

  • Instant Formula Explanation: Ask AI to describe where a formula is used using a prompt like:=AI("State the engineering use of this formula in 1 sentence. Use this format: 'Used to calculate [X] in [equipment or process]'.", A2)

  • Faster Documentation: Auto-generate contextual information, classification, or summaries from cell data.

  • No External API Needed: Unlike ChatGPT or Gemini API setups, this works directly within your Google Sheet (if you’re part of Gemini for Workspace Alpha).

  • Great for Teaching and QA: Helpful in creating annotated documentation, especially when reviewing spreadsheets with junior engineers or students.


Current Limitations of the AI Function

While powerful, the =AI() function still has constraints:

  • Not Available to Everyone: This feature is part of Gemini for Google Workspace Alpha, which means only a select group currently has access.

  • Limited Context: The function can only reference the specific cells passed to it—it can’t analyze the entire spreadsheet.

  • No Non-Text Output: It doesn’t return formulas, numbers, or conditional logic—just plain text descriptions.

  • Experimental Phase: As it’s still being tested, expect occasional bugs, delays, or inconsistent outputs.

For a broader comparison of generative AI in spreadsheets, check out this overview of AI spreadsheet tools.


Final Thoughts

If you’re lucky enough to have access, the =AI() function in Google Sheets is a low-effort, high-impact tool—especially for engineers working with large amounts of structured data. Want to learn more about integrating AI into your engineering workflow?

👉 Advance your AI skills with our Udemy course: Singularity: AI for Engineers

 
 
 

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