How to Build a Free Applicant Tracking System in Google Sheets with Apps Script

INTRO: Small businesses don't need a $300/month ATS. Here's how to build a candidate tracking and email automation system in Google Sheets — free, with Apps Script. SECTION 1: The Sheet Structure 4 sheets: Applications, Email Templates, Settings, Email Log Key design: Status column never triggers emails — explain why this matters SECTION 2: Reading Candidate Data Correctly The timezone bug: why getDisplayValue() is needed for date cells Code snippet: getCandidate() function SECTION 3: Non-Contiguous Row Selection The bug: getActiveRange() only returns last clicked range The fix: getActiveRangeList().getRanges() Code snippet: getSelectedRows() function SECTION 4: Email Providers GmailApp vs MailApp How to support 4 providers from one settings cell Code snippet: dispatch() function SECTION 5: Logo and HTML Signature buildHtmlEmail() wrapper function Code snippet SECTION 6: The Menu 6 menu items, no more Why manual confirmation before every send matters If you want the pre-built template