Google Sheets Named Functions let you build your own reusable formulas—no Apps Script required. In 2025, they’re the fastest way to package complex logic into a simple, human‑readable function name your whole team can use. In this guide, you’ll learn what named functions are, when to use them, step‑by‑step setup, 10 copy‑paste examples, performance tips, and a rollout plan for teams. By the end, you’ll turn brittle formulas into clean functions like =SLUGIFY(A2) or =DEPENDENT_LIST(B2, Lists!A:A, Lists!B:B).
Turn long formulas into short, reusable functions your team can trust.
What are Google Sheets Named Functions (and why they matter)
Named functions are custom formulas you create from existing Sheets functions (like FILTER, TEXT, REGEXREPLACE, XLOOKUP). You define inputs once, add documentation, and reuse the logic anywhere in the file (or export to use across files). They’re like macros for formulas—ideal for data cleaning, reporting templates, and onboarding new teammates.
Readable: Replace long formulas with clear names (e.g., =CLEAN_EMAIL(A2)).
Reusable: Use the same logic across tabs and files.
Maintainable: Update in one place instead of fixing dozens of cells.
Governed: Add descriptions and argument hints your team sees on hover.
Name your logic, define arguments, add a help description, and reuse everywhere.
When to use named functions vs alternatives
Use Named Functions when your logic is expressible with built‑in functions and needs no external API calls or loops.
Use Apps Script custom functions when you need HTTP requests, advanced logic, or cross‑file automation.
Use Named Ranges if you only need readable references, not reusable logic.
Step‑by‑step: create your first named function (CLEAN_EMAIL)
Select Data → Named functions → Start.
Click Add new function. Name it CLEAN_EMAIL. Add a description: “Lowercase email and remove stray spaces/illegal characters.”
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