- Excel has thousands of functions available.
Learn the different things Excel is used for. This will give you an overview of how the program may be useful for your particular needs.
Excel is an advanced calculation tool. It does far more than simple addition and subtraction. Excel does complex equations including trigonometry, statistical and logical functions.
Excel is also a tool for those who maintain large lists of data. The program has sorting and filtering features that make long lists vastly more flexible and useful. It also easily integrates with Microsoft Word so lists can be used for mail merges. - Once you know the basics of Excel's main screen learning the rest is considerably easier.
The elements of the Excel screen may vary depending upon which version of the program you are using. Those using versions 2003 or prior will find two toolbars toward the top of the screen featuring icons for commonly used features such as print, save, close and open.
For those using version 2007 or later will find The Ribbon, which features tabs that categorize similar features into groups. The Office Button, the large button with the Microsoft logo in the top, left hand corner of the screen, features the most commonly used functions.
The main body of the screen is made up of cells. Each column of cells is labeled with a letter. Each row of cells is labels by a number. Cells are identified by their column letter and row number. For example, the first cell in the spreadsheet is called "A1."
Three kinds of data can be placed inside cells: Text, numbers or formulas. When you select a cell containing data, it will also show in the "Formula Bar," located directly above the column headers.
Formulas are how you tell Excel you want it to perform a specific function. All formulas must begin with the equal sign. For example, if you would like to add the contents of cells "A1" and "B1," click inside of the blank cell you would like the answer to appear in and type the formula, "=A1+B1" and hit the "Enter" key.
To have Excel help you enter more complex formulas, click on the "Insert Function" button, located directly to the left of the "Formula Bar." Excel will then open a dialog box and walk you through getting the formula you need. - If at any time you need assistance, the "F1" key will open the Help feature. You can then type what you are looking for help on in the text box and Excel will give you information based on that.
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