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name: google-sheets description: Google Sheets browser automation pitfalls and workarounds. Use when automating Sheets via browser (clicking, typing, navigating cells). Not needed for rclone/CLI/MCP access.

Google Sheets Browser Automation

Keyboard Shortcuts (Sheets ≠ Excel)

• Ctrl+G does NOT work (that's Excel)
• Navigate to cell: Accessibility → Go to range (most reliable), or Name Box click + type ref
• Tab danger: Escapes grid, cycles browser UI
• Arrow keys safer than Tab

Accessibility Menu (Preferred for Automation)

Verification Protocol

1. Screenshot after every structural change
2. Verify Name Box shows expected cell before typing
3. Never chain 5+ keyboard actions without screenshot
4. If something seems off - STOP and screenshot

Reliable Alternatives

• Accessibility → Go to range - Most reliable navigation
• JavaScript cell manipulation - Direct DOM access
• Batch data - Download CSV, modify, re-upload

Common Failures

• Name Box misclick → typed ref becomes cell data ("A12" as content)
• Tab spam → escapes grid
• No verification → compounding errors

Special Characters

Values starting with +, -, =, @ → formula interpretation → #ERROR! Fix: Prefix with apostrophe: '+972... displays as +972...

Sheet Tab Bar

Bottom tab clicks unreliable. Use JavaScript contextmenu event dispatch instead.

Execution Rules

• AUTO: Navigate, read, verification screenshots
• ASK FIRST: Write operations (cell entry, insert, paste)
• Abort: 2+ consecutive failures → STOP and report