Can you send arguments to a function when connecting it to a button in Google Sheets?
I’m working with a Google Sheets document where I’ve created several buttons that trigger different script functions.
Here’s a basic function example:
function calculateSum(){
return "total";
}
When I use this in a cell with =calculateSum(), it works fine and shows “total”. When I assign calculateSum to a button, the function runs properly too.
But here’s my problem with a function that needs arguments:
function displayMessage(text){
return text;
}
In a cell, =displayMessage('greeting') works perfectly and shows “greeting”.
However, when I try to assign displayMessage('greeting') to a button, it fails with an error. The button system looks for a function literally named displayMessage('greeting') instead of understanding that ‘greeting’ should be passed as an argument.
Is there a way to pass arguments when assigning functions to buttons?
Right now I’m stuck with creating 26 separate functions that are basically identical except for one parameter value. If I could pass arguments through buttons, I could reduce this to just 2 functions total.
Nope, Google Sheets doesn’t let you pass parameters through button assignments. Buttons only accept function names without arguments - that’s why you’re getting the error. I hit this same wall last year on a project and found a workaround that beat writing tons of duplicate functions. Instead of passing parameters directly, I made wrapper functions that call the main function with preset arguments. For your situation, create functions like displayGreeting() that calls displayMessage('greeting') internally, and displayWelcome() that calls displayMessage('welcome'). You’ll still need multiple functions, but each wrapper’s just one line pointing to your main logic. I’ve also stored parameter values in specific cells and had the button function read from those. This lets you change behavior without touching code, though it takes more setup upfront.
unfortunately, there’s no direct way - buttons can’t take parameters in google sheets. i usually work around this by storing the argument in a global variable or property, then having the button function read it. so i’ll use PropertiesService.getScriptProperties().setProperty('myArg', 'greeting') before clicking, then grab it inside displayMessage() with getProperty(). it’s a bit hacky but works well for what i need.
You can’t pass arguments directly to button functions in Google Sheets. Buttons only accept bare function names - no parentheses or parameters allowed. I hit this same wall about six months ago building an inventory tracker.
Here’s what worked for me: store your argument values in hidden cells, then have your button function read from those cells. Instead of trying to pass ‘greeting’ as a parameter, put ‘greeting’ in cell Z1. Then modify your function to grab that value: var text = SpreadsheetApp.getActiveSheet().getRange('Z1').getValue(). Use other functions or dropdowns to set Z1’s value before clicking the button.
It’s messier than direct parameter passing, but beats creating dozens of duplicate functions.