1. Sheets as a Trigger
Use 'New Spreadsheet Row' or 'New or Updated Row' as triggers. When someone adds data to your sheet, Zapier automatically sends it to your CRM, email tool, or any connected app.
2. Sheets as a Destination
Use 'Create Spreadsheet Row' or 'Update Row' as actions. Log form submissions, track metrics, create simple databases—all automatically populated by your other tools.
3. Two-Way Sync Patterns
Combine triggers and actions for two-way sync. Example: New CRM contact → Add to Sheets for reporting. Updated Sheet row → Update CRM contact. Be careful to avoid infinite loops!
Wrap-up
Google Sheets + Zapier is perfect for lightweight databases and integration hubs. For complex logic, add filters and paths or graduate to Make.com.