how to summarize text in google sheets
IN SUMMARY
Google Sheets does not have a built-in function to summarize text, but you can use third-party add-ons like Prompt Loop or Mage to leverage AI models and automatically generate summaries of text data in your spreadsheets.
Using Prompt Loop Add-on
Go to Add-ons > Get add-ons and search for 'Prompt Loop'. Install the add-on to your Google Sheets. This add-on allows you to use AI models within your spreadsheets using simple formulas.
Provide input examples (the text you want to summarize) and output examples (the desired summaries) in separate columns. These examples will train the AI model to understand the task.
In the cell where you want the summary, enter the Prompt Loop formula: =PROMPTLOOP(input_range, output_range, target_cell). Replace input_range with the range of cells containing the text to summarize, output_range with the range of cells containing the desired summaries, and target_cell with the cell containing the text you want to summarize.
Using Mage AI Functions
Visit usemage.com and follow the instructions to install the Mage add-on in your Google Sheets. Mage provides AI-powered functions that can be used directly in your spreadsheets.
In the cell where you want the summary, enter the =AI() function with the appropriate parameters. For example, =AI('summarize', A2) will summarize the text in cell A2 using Mage's AI model.
Mage allows you to specify the desired length of the summary by adding a third parameter to the =AI() function. For example, =AI('summarize', A2, 50) will generate a summary of approximately 50 words.
Tips and Best Practices
The quality of the summaries generated by AI models depends heavily on the examples you provide. Ensure that your input and output examples are clear, concise, and representative of the desired summaries.
Both Prompt Loop and Mage offer access to multiple AI models. Try different models to find the one that works best for your specific use case and data.
When using third-party AI services, be aware of the potential data privacy implications. Review the privacy policies and data handling practices of the services you use.