Try the example, then check the result.
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The fictional order CSV has quantities and unit prices that editors may change. The exercise adds formulas in D2:D4, then restricts only those formula cells. The worked answer checks both the arithmetic and the intended permissions. The video shows labelled illustrative UI diagrams; no second-editor denial is claimed as a live observation.
Build and check the formulas
Paste or import the CSV into a native Google Sheet. Add Line total in D1. In D2 enter:
=B2*C2Fill down through D4, adjusting references by row. Verify D2 is $36, D3 is $30, and D4 is $15. Together they total $81. Your currency formatting can differ; the numeric results should match.
| Range | Purpose | Intended editing |
|---|---|---|
| B2:C4 | Quantity and unit price inputs | Editable by trusted collaborators |
| D2:D4 | Line-total formulas | Restricted to the owner |
Swipe or scroll sideways to see every table column →
Restrict the formula range
- Select D2:D4 only. Choose Data > Protect sheets and ranges.
- Add a Range rule and confirm its displayed range is exactly
D2:D4, not the whole sheet or B2:C4. If the command is absent, Google says you may be in Office editing; convert the file to a Google Sheet. - Choose Set permissions. Select Restrict who can edit this range, then Only you for this practice copy. A Show a warning rule is softer and still lets someone continue editing.
- Reopen the panel to inspect the saved rule. The owner can still edit the protected formulas. If you can safely use a trusted test editor, verify that person can edit B2 or C2 and cannot overwrite D2. Do not invite anyone into your real data just to run this exercise.
Maintain the rule
When you add rows, fill the corresponding formula into the new D cell and extend the protected range. A range ending at D4 does not automatically promise coverage for every later row. Recheck one new row with simple arithmetic.
Does this hide formulas? No. Google explicitly says protected sheets and ranges are not a security measure; people with access may copy or export data. Use file-sharing permissions for access control.
Why can I still edit D2? The owner is still allowed. Inspect the rule settings or test with a trusted separate editor.
Why can't teammates edit B2? The rule may cover the entire sheet or the wrong range. Narrow it to D2:D4.
Sources and verification
Google's protected sheets and ranges instructions document the Range panel, warning versus restriction, owner permissions, and Office-file conversion. Its Sheets collaboration guide covers sharing. Reviewed 11 October 2026. In a private native Sheet, we selected D2:D4, chose Restrict who can edit this range > Only you, and confirmed the rule saved. The three arithmetic answers were checked locally; a second live editor was not invited.
Practice downloads.
The exercise files contain invented information. Save a local copy before editing.