Formulas are powerful, but we know that writing them - especially in larger tables - can sometimes feel harder than it should. You’ve probably had the experience of struggling to remember the exact column name, scrolling through lists of similar names, tracking down the specific cell value, and ultimately typing everything by hand.
Well, there’s good news. We’ve built something to improve that: Point & Compose, a familiar interaction from spreadsheets, that lets you click to build formulas instead of typing everything manually.
Use Point & Compose in formulas
Point & Compose allows you to simply point and click on a value in a table - whether that be a column or a single cell - while working in the formula builder. The formula builder will float while you scroll, allowing you to easily find and select the value without ever having to close the formula. When you select a value in the table, this value will populate directly in the formula with the correct syntax.
To use Point & Compose, follow these steps:
- Open the formula builder. You can either start with a brand new formula or try editing an existing formula.
- Start writing your formula. When it comes time to enter a column or a cell value in your formula, instead of typing the name, try one of the following:
- To select an entire column, click the column header.
-
To select a specific value from a single cell, hold
cmd(on a Mac) orCtrl(on a PC), then click the desired cell.
- Continue with your formula and click Enter when done.
FAQs
Can I select values from multiple different tables?
Yes, you can use Point & Compose to select columns or cell values across multiple tables, so long as the tables are on the same page. You cannot currently select a value from a different page.
Can I use Point & Compose to select controls?
No, you cannot use this feature to select canvas controls. At this time, you can only use Point & Compose to select columns or cells in a table.
Can I use Point & Compose when writing canvas formulas?
Yes! Point & Compose isn’t only for formulas within a table - you can also use it when writing canvas formulas.