TASK_CLEAR

Function Overview

TASK_CLEAR is a function that clears all contents and formatting from a specified range of cells. It helps you quickly clean up sections of your spreadsheet without having to manually select and clear data.

Uses

1. Reset data entry areas after processing.
2. Create clean templates regularly.
3. Remove old data before importing new information.
4. Quickly clear formatting from copied content.
5. Prepare ranges for new calculations or data entry.

Syntax and Parameters

=TASK_CLEAR(range, [sheet])

Advanced Options

Using With Different Sheet References

You can clear ranges in different sheets by specifying the sheet name:

=TASK_CLEAR("A1:B10", "Data Sheet")

This allows you to create workflows that clean up data across multiple sheets without needing to switch between them manually.

Single Cell Clearing

You can specify a single cell instead of a range:

=TASK_CLEAR("A1")

This will clear only that specific cell of its contents and formatting.

Examples

Example 1: Clear a Data Entry Area

Clears all content and formatting from cells B5 through F20 in the active sheet.

=TASK_CLEAR("B5:F20")

Example 2: Clear a Named Range on Another Sheet

Clears the range named

InputArea

Sales Data

=TASK_CLEAR("InputArea", "Sales Data")

Example 3: Creating a Reset Button

Follow these steps to create a reset button for a data entry area:

=TASK_CLEAR("A1:Z100", "Data Entry")

1. Enter the formula in cell A1 of a control sheet.
2. Add a button that runs this function via the Sheet Workflows sidebar.
3. Click the button whenever you need to reset the data entry area.

Best Practices

• Double-check your range before running to avoid accidentally clearing important data.
• Use named ranges for commonly cleared areas to make your functions more readable.
• Consider backing up important data before clearing large ranges.
• For frequently used clear operations, create dedicated control cells with clear labels.
• Test your clear operations on a copy of your data first if you're unsure of the exact range.

Troubleshooting

Function Returns an Error About Invalid Range

Verify the range syntax (e.g., "A1:B10") is correct.

Sheet Not Found Error

Check that the sheet name exists and is spelled correctly, including any spaces.

Nothing Happens When Function Runs

Ensure you're using the Run button in the Sheet Workflows sidebar to execute the function.

Only Partial Clearing Occurs

Make sure your range encompasses all cells you want to clear.

FAQ

Does TASK_CLEAR Delete My Cells or Just Their Contents?

It only clears the contents and formatting. The cells themselves remain intact.

Can I Undo a TASK_CLEAR Operation?

Yes, you can use Ctrl+Z (or Cmd+Z on Mac) to undo the clear operation.

Will TASK_CLEAR Remove Formulas in the Cells?

Yes, it removes all contents including formulas, values, and notes.

Can I Clear Just the Formatting But Keep the Content?

No, this function clears both contents and formatting. Consider using Google Sheets' built-in Clear Formatting option for that specific need.

Does This Work With Protected Ranges?

No, if a range is protected, TASK_CLEAR will return an error when attempting to clear it.