How do I generate a formula for a column using the 'Generate formula' tool?

Short Answer: Click 'Click to generate' for a column in the sample data, enter natural-language instructions in 'Describe what you want', use 'Type / to insert columns', then click 'Generate formula'.

PreRequisites

1. A data source must be added so sample rows appear.

2. Columns you want to reference must be present in the sample.

Steps

1. In the sample table click the 'Click to generate' control for the column you want to create a formula for.
   The 'Generate formula' modal opens.

2. In the modal, type your instruction into 'Describe what you want'. The placeholder shows an example: 'Make refunds negative and subtract fee'.
   Your instruction appears in the text box.

3. Use 'Type / to insert columns' to add explicit column references to your instruction where needed.
   Column references are inserted into your description for clarity.

4. Click 'Generate formula'.
   A formula is generated based on your instructions and applied to the column. Sample updates.

Troubleshooting

1. 'Generate formula' returns results that don't match expectations.
   LikelyCause: The instruction was ambiguous or lacked column references.
   Action: Be more specific in the description and use 'Type / to insert columns' to reference the columns you intend to use.

2. 'Generate formula' button is disabled.
   LikelyCause: The 'Describe what you want' field is empty.
   Action: Enter a description or insert column references, then try again.

3. 'Click to generate' is shown but clicking has no effect.
   LikelyCause: No valid sample rows are available for that column or UI load issue.
   Action: Confirm the sample shows valid rows see 'Sample data · first 25 valid rows' or refresh the page and try again.

Note: The 'Describe what you want' box accepts natural-language instructions; use the '/' shortcut to insert exact column names.