What are some of the most useful spreadsheet shortcuts and tips?

2 Use formulas and functions

Formulas and functions are the core of spreadsheet calculations. They allow you to perform various mathematical, logical, statistical, and text operations on your data. For example, you can use =SUM(A1:A10) to add up the values in a range of cells, =IF(A1>10,"Yes","No") to display a conditional result based on a criterion, =AVERAGE(B1:B10) to calculate the mean of a set of numbers, and =CONCATENATE(C1," ",D1) to join two text strings. To enter a formula or a function, start with an equal sign (=) and follow the syntax and arguments of the formula or function. You can also use the formula bar or the insert function dialog box to help you create and edit formulas and functions.

3 Use filters and sorts

Filters and sorts are useful features that help you organize and analyze your data. They allow you to display only the rows or columns that meet certain criteria or order them by a specific value. For example, you can use filters to show only the sales records for a certain product, region, or date range. You can also use sorts to arrange your data alphabetically, numerically, or chronologically. To apply filters or sorts, select the data range or the entire worksheet and use the filter or sort buttons on the data or home tab.

4 Use charts and graphs

Charts and graphs are visual aids that help you present and communicate your data in a clear and attractive way. They allow you to show trends, patterns, comparisons, and relationships among your data. For example, you can use charts and graphs to illustrate the sales performance, customer satisfaction, or budget allocation of your department or project. To create a chart or a graph, select the data range and use the chart or graph button on the insert tab. You can also customize your chart or graph by changing the type, style, layout, title, legend, axis, labels, and colors.

5 Use data validation and protection

Data validation and protection are security features that help you prevent errors and unauthorized changes in your spreadsheet. They allow you to control the type, format, and range of the data that can be entered or edited in a cell or a range of cells. For example, you can use data validation to restrict the input to numbers, dates, lists, or formulas. You can also use data protection to lock or hide certain cells, sheets, or workbooks and require a password to modify them. To apply data validation or protection, select the cell or the range of cells and use the data validation or protect sheet button on the data or review tab.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?