Gemini AI in Google Sheets (2026): 14 AI Formulas (No API Key)

By Joe @ SimpleMetrics
Published 24 May, 2024
Updated 14 February, 2026
Gemini AI in Google Sheets (2026): 14 AI Formulas (No API Key)

Want to use Gemini directly in Google Sheets without writing Apps Script or managing an API key? With AI for Sheets, you can run Gemini-powered workflows with simple spreadsheet formulas.

Quick start

  1. Install the add-on.
  2. Open Extensions → AI for Sheets → Use AI Formulas.
  3. Try =GEN("Rewrite this in a friendlier tone", A2).

New here? See Getting started.

AI for Sheets add-on overview

What is AI for Sheets?

AI for Sheets turns Google Sheets into an AI assistant. You can run prompts inside a cell and get output inline for workflows like data cleanup, writing, translation, classification, and image/PDF extraction.

Key features

Feature What it does
Direct AI interaction Prompt Gemini from any cell or the sidebar; get answers inline without switching apps.
No coding or API key Install the add-on and start with ready-made formulas—no setup, no keys.
Enhanced productivity Automate analysis, writing, translation, tagging, and image tasks to save hours.
Data-driven insights Surface patterns and trends directly from ranges and documents.

All AI formulas (quick reference)

AI for Sheets includes a complete set of formulas for text, data analysis, web answers, and file understanding. For the canonical list and syntax examples, see Formula reference.

Formula What it does
=GEN Generate a response to a prompt, with optional list mode to return multiple answers down the rows below.
=WRITE Create long-form content (blog posts, reports).
=SUMMARIZE Condense long passages into key points.
=REPHRASE Rewrite content with a different tone.
=AISEARCH Search the web and answer with current info.
=ANALYZE Extract insights from a selected range.
=TRANSLATE Translate text to a target language.
=SENTIMENT Classify sentiment as positive/neutral/negative.
=SPAM Detect spam-like text.
=TAGS Suggest relevant tags.
=VISION Describe images or extract on-image text (OCR) from URLs.
=PDF Analyze a PDF and return key points or extracted fields (for example, invoice numbers).
=IMAGEN Generate an image from a prompt (with optional aspect ratio and reference image).
=EDIT Edit an image per instructions (with optional reference images and aspect ratio).

Full sheet analysis (Ask & Act)

  • Ask: Explore any sheet with guided prompts and contextual suggestions.
  • Act: Let AI edit the active sheet for you (paid plans).
  • Attach context: Add up to three supporting files (images or PDFs) for the AI to read alongside your sheet.
  • Safe to try: Quickly review and revert any changes.

Personalization with custom instructions

Setting What it controls
Custom Instruction Tell the AI your tone, format, and context so outputs match your style.
Creativity level Adjust how conservative vs. creative the responses should be.
Model selection Choose between default and advanced models for accuracy and complexity.

Why choose SimpleMetrics?

  • Comprehensive formula suite: cover writing, analysis, translation, tagging, images, and PDFs.
  • No API key required: avoid key management and billing complexity for most spreadsheet workflows.
  • Free tier available: start with usage limits and upgrade as you scale.
  • Spreadsheet-native: keep workflows in cells and ranges instead of switching tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Gemini API key to use these formulas?

No. AI for Sheets gives you access without requiring your own API key.

What’s the difference between free and paid tiers?

The free tier includes all formulas with usage limits. Paid plans raise limits and unlock advanced features.

Can I use these formulas in any Google Sheet?

Yes. After installing the add-on, you can use the formulas in any sheet where you have edit access.

Where can I find examples for each formula?

You can find more common questions on FAQs.

More video tutorials are available on our YouTube channel.

Ready to try it? Install AI for Sheets from the Google Workspace Marketplace.

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