Home › Automations › Highlight a row when it’s updated in Google Sheets
Trigger: Row updatedAction: Format row

Highlight a row when it’s updated in Google Sheets

Spot changes instantly. Whenever any value in the sheet is updated, Sheet Automation highlights that row with a background color.

Add to Google Sheets — free See the template

Installs in 30 seconds · No credit card · Works inside Google Sheets

★★★★★ 4.9/5 · 500+ reviews · 300,000+ installs

What it does

This automation watches the sheet for edits. When a row changes, it applies a background color so recently-touched rows stand out — handy for reviews, shared sheets, and spotting activity at a glance.

How to set it up

  1. Install Sheet Automation from the Google Workspace Marketplace and open it from your sheet.
  2. Pick the “Highlight updated row” template and choose the sheet and color.
  3. Save, then edit any cell to test — that row gets highlighted.
  4. Tip: pair it with a scheduled rule to clear highlights periodically.

The ready-made template

Highlight updated row — Trigger: any value in the sheet is updated → Action: color the changed row. Edit it live below:

Loading preview…

How to use this template

The builder above is a live preview of this automation. To run it in your own spreadsheet:

  1. Click Add to Google Sheets to install Sheet Automation (free).
  2. Open it from your sheet: Extensions → Sheet Automation → Open.
  3. Open the Templates tab and choose “Highlight updated row”.
  4. Adjust the fields to match your data, then click Save.
  5. Trigger it once to confirm the automation runs.

FAQ

Is it free?
Yes — this automation works on the free plan. Paid plans add more monthly runs and advanced actions.
Does it highlight every edit?
Yes — any change in the sheet highlights that row. Add conditions to narrow it to specific columns or values.
Can I choose the color?
Yes. Set any background color in the format action.
Do I need Zapier or Make?
No. Sheet Automation runs inside Google Sheets, so there’s no third-party connector to pay for or maintain.

Related automations

Format a row when a task is completed Send email when a column is updated Add a timestamp when a row is updated Auto sort a sheet every hour