Diagnostic reference

Missing ) after argument list

Why the parser reports a missing parenthesis lines below the real mistake, and how to find the unclosed call.

Updated September 12, 2026

Apps Script error

SyntaxError: Missing ) after argument list

What it means

A parenthesis opened and never closed, usually inside nested calls or a multiline argument list. The reported line is where the parser gave up, which is often below the actual missing paren. In the Apps Script editor this error blocks saving and running, so you see it before any runtime error.

Related error messages

SyntaxError: missing ) after argument list

Before and after

See the change before you make it.

Problem

function notify() {
  MailApp.sendEmail('team@example.com', 'Status', 'Done'
  Logger.log('sent');
}

Safer version

function notify() {
  MailApp.sendEmail('team@example.com', 'Status', 'Done');
  Logger.log('sent');
}

How to fix it

Find the MailApp.sendEmail call above the reported line.
Close its argument list with a parenthesis before starting Logger.log.
Check the grouping of any nested calls.

What stays with you

Review the fix when calls are nested; the intended grouping may differ.
myFunction does not change send behavior.