What replaces the Name Manager in Google Sheets?
Excel Name Manager lists defined names for cells, tables, and formulas. Google Sheets uses Data > Named ranges and named functions for reusable logic. Open the named ranges side panel to edit, delete, or jump to a name.
When to use it
Use Named ranges when Excel Name Manager made formulas readable across sheets.
When to skip it
Skip extra names when a table column reference or QUERY is clearer for the team.
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Read post →Name Match: Who's In and Who's Out
Let's say you have a master list with over 700 names and a new list from a recent meeting containing 175 names. How will you identify which names from the new list aren't on the master list so they can be added.
Read post →Related terms
Named range
A named range gives a block of cells a readable label like Revenue or ValidStatuses instead of only B2:B500. Define names from Data > Named ranges. Formulas, charts, pivot tables, and validation rules can reference the name, which makes models easier to audit and safer when rows shift inside the named block.
Read guide →Named function
A named function is a custom formula you define once and call by a friendly name in any cell. Google Sheets uses LAMBDA under the hood via Data > Named functions. Instead of repeating a long expression, you write =DISCOUNT(price, rate) everywhere. Named functions make templates readable and reduce copy-paste errors across tabs.
Read guide →Google Sheets formulas
A formula is an instruction in a cell that calculates a result from other cells, ranges, or built-in functions. Every formula begins with =. When inputs change, the sheet recalculates so dashboards and models stay live without manual copy-paste. Formulas are the default automation layer inside the grid before Apps Script or add-ons.
Read guide →Done reading about Name Manager?
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