Easy Bank Settlement: Compare Columns in Google Sheets in Minutes

Here’s a detailed list of steps to compare columns and perform a bank settlement in Google Sheets:

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List of steps to compare columns and perform bank settlement in Google Sheets:

1. Prepare the data:

• Open Google Sheets and create a new file.
• Create two tabs:
  • Tab 1: For your accounting records (e.g., General Ledger).
  • Tab 2: For the bank statement (for example, “Bank Statement”).
• Make sure both tabs have the same column structure (e.g., Date, Description, Amount).

1. Organize the columns:

• On both tabs, make sure the data is aligned correctly.
• For example, if you are comparing amounts, make sure they are in the same column (e.g., column B on both tabs).

1. Apply the comparison formula:

• On Tab 1 , select an empty column (for example, column C) to compare values.
• Enter the following formula in the first cell of the empty column (for example, C2):

Excel =IF(B2<>'Pestaña 2'!B2, "Diferente", "Igual")

• Explanation: This formula compares the value in cell B2 on Tab 1 with the value in cell B2 on Tab 2. If they are different, it returns “Different”; if they are equal, it returns “Equal.”

1. Copy the formula:

• Drag the formula down to apply it to all cells in the column.
• This will automatically compare all values ​​in the two columns.

1. Highlight differences with conditional formatting:

• Select the column where you applied the formula (for example, column C).
• Go to Format > Conditional Formatting .
• In the “Formatting Rules” section, select “Text contains” and type Different .
• Choose a highlight color (e.g., yellow) and click “Done.”
• This will automatically highlight all cells where the values ​​do not match.

1. Review and correct differences:

• Review the cells highlighted in yellow. These indicate discrepancies between your records and your bank statement.
• Correct any errors in your records or check with your bank to see if there are any errors on your statement.

1. Save and share:

• Save your Google Sheets file for future reference.
• If you work as a team, share the file with your colleagues to collaborate on settlement.

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Additional Tips:

• Check formats: Make sure the amounts are in the same format (e.g., currency) on both tabs.
• Use filters: Apply filters to the results column to see only cells marked as “Different.”
• Automate with scripts: If you have advanced skills, you can use Google Apps Script to further automate the process.

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Download the template:

👉 Download this Google Sheets file  with the preconfigured formula to compare columns and highlight differences in yellow.

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