Hey everyone! I’m trying to figure out how to use Google Sheets as a data source for automatically filling out and submitting forms on external websites. Here’s what I want to do:
- Get names and emails from a Google Sheet
- Use this info to fill out forms on different websites (for contests and raffles)
- Do this automatically for each person in the sheet
- Be able to use new sheets and new websites every few weeks
I’m pretty new to coding outside of Google Apps Script. I’ve heard I might need to use the Google API and maybe convert stuff to JSON? But I’m kinda lost.
Has anyone done something like this before? Any tips on where to start or what tools I should look into? Thanks for any help!
I’ve actually attempted something similar before, and it’s not as straightforward as it might seem. While Google Sheets can indeed serve as a data source, the real challenge lies in the automation part.
I ended up using Python with libraries like Selenium for web automation. It worked, but it was finicky and required constant maintenance as websites changed their layouts. Plus, many sites have bot detection that’s pretty good at catching automated submissions.
Looking back, I’d say it’s more trouble than it’s worth. You might want to explore APIs if the websites offer them, or look into services that provide legitimate mass entry options for contests. Just be aware that automated form filling, even if you can get it to work, often violates terms of service and could get you banned from these promotions altogether. It’s a risky path that I wouldn’t recommend pursuing further.
yo, i tried this once. it’s doable but sketchy af. you’ll need python and some web scraping skills. but watch out, most sites hate this kinda stuff. they got ways to catch bots and might ban u. maybe look for legit ways to enter contests instead? just my 2 cents, dont wanna see u get in trouble bro
While it’s technically possible to use Google Sheets as a data source for automated form submissions, I’d strongly advise against it. This approach treads dangerously close to spamming and could violate the terms of service for many websites. It’s also likely to trigger anti-bot measures, potentially getting your IP blocked.
Instead, consider more ethical and legal ways to engage with these websites. If you’re looking to enter contests or raffles, most organizers prefer genuine, individual entries. Automating this process often goes against the spirit of these promotions.
If you’re still set on automation for legitimate purposes, look into APIs provided by the websites you’re targeting. This is a more appropriate and less risky method of interacting with external sites programmatically. Always ensure you have permission and are complying with all relevant rules and regulations.