Modifying Google Docs table using API and CSV data

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1

I’m having trouble updating a table in Google Docs using the API. My doc has a 2x3 table with a placeholder {{asas}}. I want to fill it with CSV data.

Here’s what’s happening:

  1. I get an error about an invalid table start location
  2. When I fix that, only the first cell updates

I think the issue is in the ‘replace placeholder with actual data’ part. Here’s a simplified version of what I’m trying:

def update_table(doc_id, csv_data):
    # Set up API
    service = get_docs_api()
    doc = service.documents().get(documentId=doc_id).execute()

    # Find table with placeholder
    table_start = find_table_with_placeholder(doc, '{{asas}}')

    # Add rows if needed
    add_rows_to_table(service, doc_id, table_start, len(csv_data))

    # Update cells with CSV data
    for row_num, row_data in enumerate(csv_data):
        for col_num, cell_text in enumerate(row_data.values()):
            update_cell(service, doc_id, table_start, row_num, col_num, cell_text)

    print('Table updated')

How can I ensure that all rows and columns get updated correctly?

2

I’ve encountered similar issues when working with the Google Docs API for table manipulation. Here’s what worked for me:

First, make sure you’re correctly identifying the table’s location. Instead of searching for a placeholder, I found it more reliable to use the table’s index in the document.

Next, when updating cells, I had better results by batching requests. Rather than making separate API calls for each cell, group them into a single batchUpdate request. This not only improved performance but also helped ensure all cells were updated.

For adding rows, I recommend inserting them at the end of the table, then populating data from top to bottom. This avoids issues with shifting indices during updates.

Lastly, double-check your CSV parsing. Ensure you’re correctly mapping CSV columns to table columns, especially if your CSV has headers.

With these adjustments, I was able to reliably update tables of various sizes. Hope this helps!

3

hey, i’ve had issues like dis too. try using the table’s index instead of relying on placehloders. batching updates may help speed up things. add rows at the end so indices don’t shift too much. hope it works!

4

Having worked extensively with the Google Docs API, I can offer some insights. One key issue might be how you’re locating the table. Instead of using a placeholder, try finding the table by its index or by iterating through the document’s elements.

For updating cells, consider using a batch update approach. This can significantly improve performance and reliability. You can create a list of requests for each cell update and send them all at once.

Regarding row addition, it’s often more stable to insert new rows at the bottom of the table. Then, populate data from top to bottom. This avoids potential index shifting problems during updates.

Also, ensure your CSV parsing is correct and that you’re properly mapping CSV columns to table columns. A mismatch here could lead to partial updates.

Lastly, always check the API response for any errors or warnings. This can provide valuable debugging information if issues persist.