Microsoft Excel in 15 minutes

Introduction

• Excel is a tool for data analysis and gaining insights.
• Focus on how to use it efficiently.

Getting Excel

• Web Version: Go to excel.new in your web browser, log in (free).
• Desktop Version: Install via Microsoft 365 (requires purchase).

Starting Excel

• Start Page: Options for blank workbook, templates, and recent workbooks.
• Creating a New Workbook: Blank workbook with cells organized in columns (letters) and rows (numbers).

Basic Navigation

• Cells: Intersection of columns and rows (e.g., E7).
• Zoom: Bottom right corner or control + mouse wheel.

Entering Data

• Headers: Insert headers (e.g., Sales, Date).
• Navigation: Use mouse, tab, arrow keys.
• Auto-Fill: Dragging fill handle for patterns (dates, numbers).

Formatting Data

• Thousands Separator: Home tab, add thousands separator icon.
• Remove Decimal Places: Icon next to thousands separator icon.
• Format Cells: Control + 1 key for format cells dialog.

Adding Context

• Notes Column: Adding a notes column with an explanation.
• Auto-Fit Columns: Double-click line between columns to auto-fit.
• Hide/Unhide Columns: Right-click to hide or unhide.

Reorganizing Data

• Move Columns: Press shift, hover over edge, drag to new position.
• Fit Contents: Click icon on top, adjust width.

Tables

• Insert Table: Insert tab, select table, check 'headers'.
• Total Row: Enable total row, use drop-down for functions (sum, etc.).

Conditional Formatting

• Apply Rules: Home tab, conditional formatting, choose rules (e.g., color scales).

Simple Analysis

• Status Bar: Quick calculation (totals, averages) by highlighting.
• Analyze Data: Home tab, analyze data pane for quick insights.

Formulas and Functions

• Basic Formulas: Using equal sign (=) for formulas (addition, etc.).
• SUM Function: =SUM(range) to quickly sum a range of cells.

Sorting and Filtering

• Sort Data: Click arrow in header, choose sorting order.
• Filter Data: Select specific criteria to filter.

Charts

• Insert Chart: Insert tab, recommended charts, choose type (e.g., line chart).

Pivot Tables

• Create Pivot Table: Insert tab, choose data range, new worksheet.
• Drag and Drop Fields: Use pivot table fields to customize data analysis.
• Show Values As: Option to show values as percentage of total, etc.

Sharing Workbooks

• Share Button: Save workbook on OneDrive, click share, enter people's emails.

Conclusion

• Overview of Excel for data analysis.
• Links for further learning and structured courses.