This document outlines the functionality and characteristics of the Google Sheets Updater node, which enables updating existing records in Google Sheets.

Node Inputs

Sheet Selection (Choose one method)

  • Select Sheet: Choose a Google Sheet directly from your Drive
  • Use Link: Option to use a direct Google Sheets URL

Configuration Options

  • Sheet Name: Specific worksheet within the Google Sheets file
  • Search Column: Column to use for identifying the row(s) to update
  • Search Value: Value to match in the search column

Data Input

Connect your node outputs directly to the column headers you want to update. The node will automatically map the data to the appropriate columns based on these connections.

Node Output

  • Sheet Link: URL to access the updated Google Sheet

Node Functionality

The Google Sheets Updater node modifies existing records within Google Sheets.

Key features include:

  • Exact value matching for precise row identification
  • Dynamic column mapping through node connections
  • Loop Mode support for batch updates
  • Secure authentication with Gumloop

When To Use

The Google Sheets Updater node is particularly valuable in scenarios requiring modification of existing spreadsheet data. Common use cases include:

  • Data Maintenance: Update records when information changes
  • Status Updates: Modify status fields based on events
  • Inventory Management: Update stock levels
  • Record Tracking: Maintain current information across records

Some specific examples:

  • Updating task status
  • Modifying contact information
  • Refreshing inventory counts
  • Adjusting project timelines

Example

Let’s say you have a customer order tracking sheet:

Your Google Sheet has columns: Order ID, Customer Name, Status, Last Updated

To update an order status:

  • Search Column: “Order ID”
  • Search Value: “ORD-123”
  • Connect your data to the column inputs, eg:
    • Status: “Completed”
    • Last Updated: current timestamp

The node will find the row with order ID “ORD-123” and update the corresponding columns, leaving other data unchanged.

Important Considerations:

  1. Requires Authentication with Google - Set up in the Credentials page
  2. Sheet must have headers in the first row
  3. Can only update existing rows (use Google Sheets Writer for new rows)
  4. If column headers are changed, you’ll need to refresh the node to see the updates
  5. Search value must exactly match the data in the specified search column
  6. Ensure search column contains unique values for accurate updates

In summary, the Google Sheets Updater node provides a reliable way to modify existing records in your Google Sheets. For adding new records, use the Google Sheets Writer node instead.