Quick answer
A linked chart in Google Docs can show an older snapshot of its Google Sheets source. Update the source chart first, then select the chart in Docs and use Update.
Understand the problem before changing anything
A pasted image and a linked chart can look identical on the page. The difference matters: an image has no spreadsheet connection to refresh. Also check that the source chart includes the new rows before trying to refresh the document.
Step-by-step checks
Identify the object
Click the chart in Docs. Look for linked-object options such as Update or Open source. If it is an ordinary image, find the original spreadsheet before replacing it.
Check the source values
Open the linked spreadsheet and verify the cells, formulas and chart range. A chart that already looks wrong in Sheets will remain wrong when updated in Docs.
Update the document
Return to Docs, select the linked chart and choose Update when offered. Allow it to finish, then compare its labels and totals with the source.
Repair an unlinked copy
If needed, insert the chart from Sheets again and retain the link option. Replace the old image carefully so its caption and document flow still make sense.
Review the shared document
Check whether the chart exposes information the document’s readers should see. People viewing a document may see its displayed chart without access to the source spreadsheet.
What to avoid
Edits to a linked object inside Docs do not become edits to the spreadsheet. Refreshing may replace local presentation changes with the current source version.
How to verify the result
Compare one changed value, the newest category and the chart title. Export the document again if you distribute a PDF; an older exported PDF will not update itself.
Follow the link between the source file and the displayed result
Confirm the Google account and exact source document before changing a shared object. A chart, table or imported value can depend on another spreadsheet, a selected range or a separate permission. The document where the problem is visible is not always where the underlying correction belongs.
Choose one known record or object and follow it through the workflow. Check the source values, range, headers and any filters before updating the destination. If the source already looks wrong, refreshing a linked document normally repeats that problem. If the source looks correct but the destination does not, inspect the link and its update state.
Review the result as a reader would see it. Check labels, totals, formatting and whether the displayed information is appropriate for the document’s audience. A person may see the rendered contents of a shared object without having access to its original source. After changing a shared file, inspect version history if you need to understand what changed, and refresh any separately exported PDF rather than expecting an older download to update itself.
Before you finish
- Correct account and source file confirmed
- Source range and filters inspected
- Linked object and ordinary image distinguished
- Shared view and exported copy reviewed
Common question
Why is there no Update button?
The object may be an image, already up to date or no longer linked. Use the object’s link options to inspect its source.
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Reference and version notes
Check the official instructions for your exact product version; menu names and available features can differ.
Official product documentation