Formula hub · Updated May 13, 2026
Formatting
Use conditional formatting, number formats, date formats, and visual rules that make sheets easier to read.
Guides in this category
Use formulas in conditional formatting to highlight rows, duplicates, overdue dates, and matching values.
Highlight Duplicates in Excel and Google SheetsUse conditional formatting formulas to highlight duplicate values in a column or table.
Highlight Entire Row with Conditional FormattingHighlight an entire spreadsheet row when a status, date, or value meets a condition.
Conditional Formatting Not WorkingFix conditional formatting rules that do not apply because of wrong ranges, relative references, or rule priority.
Find Duplicates with a FormulaUse COUNTIF or COUNTIFS to identify duplicate spreadsheet rows or values.
Paste Values Only in Excel or Google SheetsReplace formulas with their calculated values without carrying formulas or formatting.
Keep Leading Zeroes in Excel or Google SheetsPreserve leading zeroes in ZIP codes, IDs, SKU codes, and imported text values.
How to choose a formula
Start from the spreadsheet task, then choose the simplest formula that gives a maintainable answer. A report that someone else must update next month often needs clarity more than cleverness.