Set Up a Google Apps Script Trigger for Bulk PDF Export
Google Apps Script triggers are the mechanism that makes automated PDF exports possible. A trigger tells Apps Script to run your export function at a specific time or interval. Setting up a trigger takes about five minutes once your export function is written and tested.
Step 1: Write and test the export function
Before creating a trigger, write the export function and run it manually to confirm it works. Test it with a small folder. Verify that PDFs appear in the destination folder with the correct names and content. Fixing issues is easier before the trigger is active.
Step 2: Create the trigger
In the Apps Script editor, click the clock icon labeled 'Triggers' in the left panel. Click 'Add Trigger'. Set the function to your export function, the event source to 'Time-driven', and choose the type: minute timer, hour timer, day timer, week timer, or month timer. Select the interval and click Save.
Step 3: Authorize the trigger
On first run, the trigger will ask you to authorize the script to access Google Drive and Gmail (if you added email notifications). Go through the authorization flow. After authorization, the trigger runs automatically on its schedule without further prompts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if the trigger ran successfully?
Check the Apps Script execution log. In the left panel, click 'Executions'. Each trigger run appears with a timestamp and status. Failed runs show the error message.
Can I have multiple triggers for the same function?
Yes. You can create multiple triggers pointing to the same function with different schedules. Be careful not to run the same export twice in quick succession unless that is intentional.
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