FLATTEN Function in Google Sheets: Complete 2024 Guide

What Is the FLATTEN Function in Google Sheets?

The FLATTEN function in Google Sheets is used to transform a range of values into a single column, effectively "flattening" a two-dimensional range into a one-dimensional list. 

This can be particularly useful when you're working with data spread across multiple rows and columns but need to process or analyze it as a continuous series of values.

The basic syntax of the FLATTEN function is simply:

=FLATTEN(range)

Where the range is the range of cells you want to flatten. 

How to Use the FLATTEN Function in Google Sheets

Suppose you have a dataset in cells A1:C3 and you want to flatten this range into a single column.

1.  Choose Where to Place Your Output

Decide on where you want the flattened data to appear in your sheet. 

It's essential to select a starting cell that is sufficiently far from your original data range to prevent overwriting any existing data. For example, you might choose cell E1 as the starting point for the flattened output.

2. Enter the FLATTEN Function

Click on the cell where you've decided to place the output (E1). Type in the FLATTEN function followed by the range you want to flatten. Your input should look like this:

=FLATTEN(A1:C3)

Press Enter. 

3. Check Your Flattened Data

The range A1:C3 will now appear flattened in a single column, starting from E1 downwards.

We hope that this article has helped you and given you a better understanding of how to use the FLATTEN function in Google Sheets. If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our articles about the difference between Google Sheets comments vs notes and on how to insert the delta symbol in Google Sheets.