If you’ve ever made changes to your Google Sheets and wanted to revisit earlier versions, Google Sheets’ version history feature allows you to review, restore, and better understand your sheet’s evolution. This function helps you stay organized, track editing activity, and ensure important data is never lost. Whether you’re collaborating with a team or working solo, accessing previous versions can be essential for managing your work and improving workflow.
Accessing Version History in Google Sheets
- Open your Google Sheets document.
Select the File menu near the top left corner. - Scroll down in the menu and click on Version history.
Naming the Current Version
- Once inside the Version history menu, click Name current version if you wish to save a snapshot of your current sheet under a specific name.
- Enter a descriptive name in the prompt that appears to help you recognize this particular version later.
Viewing All Previous Versions
Choose See version history from the Version history submenu. - A sidebar will appear on the right, showing a timeline of every version that has been saved.
Each listed item represents a different save point for your sheet, including both automatic saves and versions you have named. - You can click any entry in the timeline to visually review the contents of your sheet at that particular time.
- This comprehensive list allows you to see every version, without exception.
Reviewing Named and Approval-Related Versions
Named versions—those you’ve labeled for easy identification—will be clearly visible in the timeline. You’ll find all your named versions, making it simple to track major milestones in your editing process. Approval-related versions, such as those linked with comment threads or document approvals, are listed here as well. - This organization makes it easier to distinguish between regular save points and key collaborative moments in your workflow.
Additional Tips for Staying Organized
- Return to the version history sidebar at any time by accessing File > Version history > See version history.
- Click Restore this version at the top of the sidebar if you want to revert your sheet to a prior version. Your current version is always preserved, so you won’t lose any changes from recent edits when reviewing old versions.
- To make tracking easier, use meaningful names for important versions, such as “Budget Finalized” or “Before Import.”
- Check the timestamps and editor details listed in the sidebar to understand who made changes and when.
