Creating a grocery list template in Google Sheets can make your shopping experience smoother and more organized.
Whether you’re planning a big family meal or just need to restock some essentials, having a digital list you can easily update and share can save time and effort.
Here’s a simple guide to help you create your own customizable grocery list template.
Why Do You Need a Grocery List?
A grocery list is essential because it serves as your shopping battle plan, ensuring that you’re fully stocked with all the necessary items for your meals. It also prevents those all-too-common impulse purchases that can wreak havoc on your budget.
It’s the key to navigating the grocery store efficiently, saving you time by avoiding aimless wandering and reducing stress by cutting out the mental gymnastics of trying to recall what you need. With a list in hand, you’re less likely to forget ingredients, which means fewer frustrating second trips to the store and less wasted food. In short, a grocery list is a simple tool that packs a powerful punch for organization and intentionality in your shopping routine.
Step 1: Open Google Sheets
First, go to Google Sheets. If you’re not already logged into your Google account, you’ll need to do so. Click on the title at the top, “Untitled Spreadsheet,” and name it something you’ll remember, like “My Grocery List.”
Step 2: Design Your Template
Now, it’s time to create the layout for your list. In the first row, across the top, type in categories. You can use categories, such as:
- Checkboxes
- Item
- Quantity
- Unit
- Price per Piece
- Total
- Category
- Notes
Highlight these cells and choose a bold font or a different color to differentiate the headings from other entries.
Step 3: Adding Checkboxes
Adding checkboxes can help you keep track of what items you’ve already bought. Click on the cell where you want to insert the first checkbox (say F2 next to your first item). Go to the menu at the top, select “Insert,” then “Checkbox.” Once inserted, copy this checkbox down the column next to each item on your list.
Step 4: Start Filling in Your List
Under each category, start listing the items you need to purchase. For instance, under “Item,” you could write “Milk,” and in the corresponding cells, fill in the quantity, price, and extra notes like “low fat” or “brand preference.”
Step 6: Use Formulas and Dropdowns
For the Total column, you can get the estimated total price of the items you want. This will help you plan your budget accordingly. To do this, click on the cell where you want to put the total price, then type “=cell#cell#.” For example, I used “=C4*E4” to get the total cost of every product.
For the Category column, you can add dropdowns along with the options you want to add. In this example, I use “Fruit,” “Vegetable,” “Dairy,” “Meat,” and more. To do this, click the cells where you want to add the dropdowns, then click Insert > Dropdowns.
Step 7: Make it Pretty
Adjust the column widths so all your text fits nicely. You might also want to color code items by category or highlight items on sale.
You can also automatically strike through the products once you tick the checkboxes. To do this, click on the cells you want to automate, then click Formula > Conditional Formatting > Custom formula.
Then, type “=$” and the cell where you want to start. In this example, I use “A4” since that’s where the checkboxes and items start. After that, click the strikethrough icon and done.
Result:
Step 8: Sharing Your Grocery List
If you’re not the only one shopping, share your list with others. Click on the “Share” button in the top right corner, add the email addresses of your family members or roommates, and choose whether they can edit or only view the list.
Get a copy of the free Grocery List template.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own grocery list template in Google Sheets is a smart way to streamline your shopping experience. With a template, you can quickly sort out what you need, customize it according to your preferences, and even share it with your family or roommates for a coordinated effort.
The process saves time and prevents you from overlooking essential items. Thanks to the Google Sheets app, your dynamic and eco-friendly list is always at your fingertips when you are on the move.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I sort my grocery list alphabetically or by category in Google Sheets?
You can easily sort your list by selecting the column you want to sort by, then going to “Data” in the menu and choosing “Sort range” to organize your items accordingly.
Can I add images, like product logos, to my Google Sheets grocery list?
While not typical for a basic list, you can insert images with the help of FileDrop. It is an add-on tool that allows users to insert images and other files into Google Sheets. You can get this tool in Google Workspace Marketplace.
Can I automatically calculate the total cost of my groceries in Google Sheets?
Yes, by using the SUM function in a dedicated cell, you can have Google Sheets automatically tally up the total cost based on the prices you input next to each item.
