Microsoft Basic Excel Tutorial

Microsoft Excel is a computer program that allows you to organize data into spreadsheets, which are essentially large tables. Many of its basic features are the same as in other Microsoft Office programs, but Excel has many advantages for working with data.

Entering Data

Decide which categories you want to separate your data into, and type these categories into the top row of the spreadsheet. Remember to begin each row, including the heading row, with a word or phrase that describes its contents.

Presentation

Most of Excel's presentation options are the same as in other Office products. To change the way text appears, use the formatting bar at the top of the screen or choose "Format," "Cells."

Formulas

Excel has many options for formulas that automatically perform a variety of actions. To enter a formula, click a blank cell and then choose "Insert," "Function."

Sorting

You can sort your data automatically (usually alphabetically or numerically) by going to "Data," "Sort."

Graphs

You can convert your data into a variety of graphs and charts, available by choosing "Insert," "Chart."

References

• Microsoft Corporation; Microsoft Excel Help File; 2003