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Google Sheets · Verified tutorial

Show formulas in Google Sheets

Show the total formula in E2 for auditing. Enter exactly =FORMULATEXT(D2) in E2. Do not change the source amounts or the total formula in D2.

Verified by JosephineJuly 25, 2026About 60 seconds

Quick answer

Show the total formula in E2 for auditing. Enter exactly =FORMULATEXT(D2) in E2. Do not change the source amounts or the total formula in D2.

Step-by-step

1

Select the targetShow the total formula in E2 for auditing.

2

Apply the changeEnter exactly =FORMULATEXT(D2) in E2.

Shortcut or faster method

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

Expected result

E2 shows the exact formula used in D2 while D2 still calculates 500.

Common mistake

Changing the source values while applying the formatting or structure change.

Troubleshooting

Re-select E2 and repeat the final action. E2 shows the exact formula used in D2 while D2 still calculates 500.

Example spreadsheet data

This is the clean fixture used for the verified run.

Item	Amount		Total	Formula shown
Hosting	80		500
Software	120
Design	300

Video transcript

Open the prepared Formula audit spreadsheet.
Select the target. Show the total formula in E2 for auditing.
Apply the change. Enter exactly =FORMULATEXT(D2) in E2.
E2 shows the exact formula used in D2 while D2 still calculates 500.