Can you share a single sheet in Google Sheets? Technically, no — Google Sheets doesn’t let you directly share just one tab from a spreadsheet. But there are a few easy workarounds that let you safely share only the information you want.
Whether you're sending part of a report, protecting sensitive data, or collaborating with limited access, these methods help you restrict what others can see or edit.
Here are three simple ways to share just one sheet (tab) from a Google Sheets file.
Method 1 – Copy the Sheet into a New File and Share It
The easiest way to share just one tab is to copy it into a new file. This method gives you full control over what others can see — perfect for reports, one-off data requests, or simplified versions of complex sheets.
How to do it:
Right-click the sheet tab
Click “Copy to” → “New spreadsheet”
Open the new file, rename it
- Click ‘Share’, and adjust the access settings
That’s it! The new file will contain only the copied sheet, and the rest of your original document remains private.
Want to share filtered data only? Here’s how to copy only visible cells in Google Sheets for cleaner, more precise sharing.
Method 2 – Use IMPORTRANGE to Share Live Data from One Tab
If you want to share a live version of a tab’s data without giving access to the full document, the IMPORTRANGE function is your best friend.
Here’s how it works:
- Create a new Google Sheet
In cell A1, use this formula:
=IMPORTRANGE("URL-of-original-sheet", "TabName!A1:Z1000")Authorize the connection between sheets
Share the new sheet with whoever needs access
This way, the recipient sees only the pulled-in data from your chosen tab. It stays synced automatically, so any updates you make in the source sheet will reflect in the shared one.
Note: By default, the new file will be read-only. You can adjust permissions to allow editing if needed.
Method 3 – Hide or Protect Other Tabs Before Sharing
If you need to keep everything in one file, you can hide or protect the other tabs before sharing.
This method works best for internal teams — not external clients — because it's more about discouraging access than blocking it.
How to do it:
- Right-click on tabs you want to hide → choose “Hide sheet”
- Use the “Protect sheet” option (from the Data menu) to restrict edits or set warnings
- Add notes or color codes to warn users not to unhide tabs
Keep in mind: if someone has edit access, they can still unhide sheets unless protection is applied.
Tips for Secure Sharing in Google Sheets
No matter how you share, make sure you're protecting your data. Here are a few quick tips:
- Always review permission settings before sending
- Use the “Viewer” role unless editing is required
- Avoid using “Anyone with the link” for sensitive information
- For long-term collaboration, consider transferring ownership to the right team member
With the right precautions, you can confidently share what matters — and keep the rest private.
FAQs About Sharing a Single Sheet in Google Sheets
Can I restrict someone to only one tab in Google Sheets?
Not directly, but copying the tab to a new file or using IMPORTRANGE lets you share just that content.
Is there a way to prevent others from seeing hidden sheets?
No. If someone has edit access, they can unhide sheets unless you protect them with restrictions.
Will copying a tab remove formulas or formatting?
No — copied tabs retain their formulas, formatting, and even data validation rules.
Can I automate data sharing from one sheet to another?
Yes. IMPORTRANGE is a great way to pull live data between sheets without manual copying.
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