Spreadsheet software remains one of the most ubiquitous pieces of software used in workplaces across the world.
Ms Excel is a powerful program that has an extraordinary broad range of features and capabilities. It has been around for many years and a new version gets released about every 3 years. With each release, new features get added and the user interface will likely change. Some of these changes might be small while others can be quite significant.
In data analytics, Excel helps us understand data, find patterns, and make decisions using numbers.
Excel is widely used because it is:
- Easy to learn
- Available on most computers
- Powerful for basic data analysis
1. Understanding the Excel Workbook and Worksheet
When you open Excel, you see a workbook.
Each workbook contains worksheets (sheets), and atleast one worksheet.
Rows run horizontally and are labelled using numbers.
Columns run vertically and are labelled using letters
Cell is the intersection between a row and a column. It is referenced by the column letter and row number. Eg. as per the screenshot below the active cell is D3, The yellow highlighted bit is where we can find the cell reference of the active cell and this can be found at the top left corner.
2. Entering and Organizing Data
Excel is used to enter raw data such as:
- Student marks
- Sales records
- Attendance
- Survey results
3. Using Excel Formulas for Basic Analysis
Formulas allow Excel to calculate automatically.
Common formulas used in data analysis:
SUM – adds values
AVERAGE – finds the mean
COUNT – counts numbers
MAX / MIN – highest and lowest values
4. Sorting and Filtering Data
Sorting and filtering help you analyze large data easily.
Sorting arranges data (highest to lowest, A–Z)
Filtering shows only selected data
Example:
The marks, I have sorted them from smallest to highest
5. Creating Charts for Data Visualization
Charts help to present data visually, making it easier to understand trends.
Common charts used in Excel:
- Column Chart
- Bar Chart
- Pie Chart
- Line Chart
Example:
6. Why Excel is Important for Data Analytics
- Excel is important because it:
- Helps clean and organize data
- Performs quick calculations
- Displays data visually
- Supports decision-making
Is used in business, education, and research
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