Why is `SpreadsheetApp.flush()` Important for Execution Control in Google Apps Script?

Why is SpreadsheetApp.flush() Important for Execution Control?

SpreadsheetApp.flush() plays a crucial role in ensuring that Spreadsheet operations are executed immediately, preventing them from being bundled together for improved performance.

Layman's Explanation:

Imagine you're picking apples from a tree. To keep track, you could count and write down the number of each apple individually. But to optimize the process, you might count several apples before writing down the total, reducing the number of write operations.

Optimization in Apps Script:

Similarly, Apps Script optimizes operations, reducing the number of write operations to the spreadsheet. However, this optimization can sometimes be problematic.

When to Use flush():

Using flush() forces the previous code's effects to be written to the spreadsheet immediately. This is useful when:

• You want to show data to users while a script is executing.
• You want to ensure that certain operations are completed before the script proceeds.

Official Documentation:

"Flush() applies all pending Spreadsheet changes. Spreadsheet operations are sometimes bundled together to improve performance, but flush() forces them to be made right away."

Analogy:

Consider a spreadsheet with 100 rows. Counting and writing down each row as you go is equivalent to not using flush(). Storing the counts in memory and writing them down in batches (e.g., every 10 rows) is similar to using flush(). This optimization significantly reduces the number of write operations, improving performance.

Best Practices:

Use flush() only when necessary. Too frequent use can slow down your script. It's recommended to use it only when the order of execution or the immediate display of data is critical.

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