Copy Specific Columns

Jennifer Parins

Is there a way for me to automate copying specific columns of a row instead of every column to a different sheet? I have multiple forms that I need to compile specific data from and the sheet becomes so huge when all of data is included that I don't need.

Thanks all for help.

markkrebs

do you own datemesh? if not, theres a way to do this with a helper sheet and and a bit of formula magic.

Jennifer Parins

I do not have datemesh, but I would LOVE to get more direction how to use a helper sheet and some magic. I appreciate a formula challenge.

Michelle Choate 2

@markkrebs I would be interested in hearing how you do this as well. The other way I have seen is the product offered by https://smartsheetguru.com/smartsheet-copy-specific-columns-to-another-sheet/

Georgie

Hi @Jennifer Parins,

There currently isn't a way to copy specific columns from one sheet to another using automation. I found a similar feature request here. Please add your vote to this idea if it matches your request. You’ll then receive updates when the status of the idea changes! 

Alternatives would be to use DataMesh, as suggested by @markkrebs, or to use VLOOKUP or INDEX/MATCH formulas. For more information on using formulas to copy data between sheets, check out the resources below:

• VLOOKUP Function 
• Formula combinations for cross sheet references
• INDEX Function
• MATCH Function

The comments in the Product Idea thread linked above may also be helpful, particularly Andree’s comment. Another option would be to use the copy rows automation and then hide the columns you don’t need to see in the destination sheet, as suggested in this thread.

Hope that helps!

Georgie

markkrebs

So Index(Match) formula works perfect. Never use Vlookup as data gets jacked if a column is moved.

In a scenario where you need to copy specific columns from a sheet AND want the ability to change the values you can do a combo: In my fabulous : 0 screen shot below you can. Index Match the data you want from the main sheet to the 2nd sheet then use automation on the 2nd sheet to copy over the row to the final destination sheet. You can use the #autonumber column on both sheets for the index match and just add enough rows to the 2nd sheet so when a new row is added to the main sheet the iferror(index(match)),"") brings in the data. Automation would need to be triggered by having data in the "Data to Copy" column or equivalent.

Jennifer Parins

Mark,

I love the thought and ability of what you have offered. But honestly, this is past my ability level. If you are able to provide more specific direction, I think I could get it done.

Thanks so much!!

Michelle Choate 2

Hi Jennifer! I would be happy to show you what he means if he is not available - just email me at michelle.choate@outlook.com