New: ready-to-use spreadsheet templatesExplore the collection →

Google Sheets tutorials›Spreadsheet basics›Highlight blank cells

Google Sheets · Verified tutorial

Highlight blank cells in Google Sheets

Add conditional formatting to A2:A5 with the custom formula =ISBLANK(A2). Choose any visible fill color.

Verified by JosephineJuly 25, 2026About 60 seconds

Quick answer

Add conditional formatting to A2:A5 with the custom formula =ISBLANK(A2). Choose any visible fill color.

Step-by-step

1

Select the targetAdd conditional formatting to A2:A5 with the custom formula =ISBLANK(A2).

2

Apply the changeChoose any visible fill color.

Shortcut or faster method

Select the target cell, type or paste the formula in the formula bar, then press Enter.

Expected result

A2:A5 has a custom rule that identifies blank cells.

Common mistake

Typing the formula as plain text or placing it in the wrong cell.

Troubleshooting

Re-select A2:A5 and repeat the final action. A2:A5 has a custom rule that identifies blank cells.

Example spreadsheet data

This is the clean fixture used for the verified run.

Owner

Anna

Cara

Video transcript

Open the prepared Practice spreadsheet.
Select the target. Add conditional formatting to A2:A5 with the custom formula =ISBLANK(A2).
Apply the change. Choose any visible fill color.
A2:A5 has a custom rule that identifies blank cells.