Export PDF from Google Sheets & Documents with Make.com

How to Export Google Sheets to PDF (The Only Way That Actually Works)

Been searching for 3 hours to find the perfect way to export Google Sheets to PDF. Here's what actually works.

The Problem with Google Sheets API

The crazy thing is - if you search the Google Sheets API docs for "PDF", "export", or "download" - you'll find nothing. It's such an obvious feature, yet so hard to find.

Method 1: HTTP Request (Not Recommended)

You can try calling the spreadsheet URL directly with file type parameters. While this works for CSV, it usually corrupts PDF files.

Method 2: Download and Convert (Also Not Great)

Another approach is:

Download as XLSX

Convert to PDF

Upload to Drive

But this messes up formatting and dates don't display correctly.

The Solution: Google Docs Export

Here's the method that actually works perfectly:

Use Google Docs (the blue one) to open your sheet

Hide any columns/rows you don't want in the PDF

Use the document ID to export directly to PDF

Upload to your Google Drive

FAQ

Q: Will this maintain all my formatting?

A: Yes, it creates an exact copy of what you see in Sheets

Q: Do I need any special permissions?

A: Just standard Google Drive access permissions

Q: Can I automate this process?

A: Yes, you can use Google Apps Script to automate the entire flow

Credit Where Credit's Due

Huge thanks to Tech Flow AI on YouTube for sharing this solution. Sometimes the simplest solutions are the hardest to find!