It is now recognized worldwide that mastering the use of Excel software is essential for any professional, yet understanding it is not necessarily easy. Indeed, with its multiple functions, Excel is a program that cannot be easily used by a novice. However, thanks to this article, you will be able to calmly discover this spreadsheet application.
Type the appropriate formula
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Using formulas is part of the foundation of a good understanding of Excel software. When you want to work with a formula you are not familiar with, the trick is to go to the “ Formulas ” menu. Then, click on “ Insert Function ” and choose the option “ Search for a formula “. Enter your query in the field presented to you, and within seconds, the various functions will be displayed.
If, on the other hand, you are referring to a cell that should be used every time, simply add the dollar sign ($) in front of the row and column reference. When you duplicate the formula in another row or column, just make sure to select the cell reference that should not change. After that, press the key F4 and the software will automatically add the dollar sign in front of the selected row and column reference. This way, you can use this feature to create, for example, a 2019 calendar.
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Reproducing a formula
It is also possible with Excel to adapt a formula to specific cells. Simply click in the lower corner of the cell that contains the formula, and you will see a cross appear. Then, from where the mouse is positioned, drag to apply the formula to the subsequent rows.
In a table that has several rows (hundreds), reproducing a formula is done through a simple operation. This involves grabbing the handle of the formula written in the first row. Then, you need to pull down the cross. To automate this action in Excel, just enter the formula in the first row and then double-click on the handle.
Inserting the date and time into a cell
If it is a quick insertion of the date and time into a cell, keyboard shortcuts allow you to easily perform this operation. Here are some key combinations that will help you do this quickly after selecting the cell where you want to insert the date or time:
- To insert the current date, press Ctrl+ ; (semicolon).
- To insert the current time, press Ctrl+Shift+ ; (semicolon).
- To insert the current date and time, press Ctrl+ ; (semicolon), then Space, and finally Ctrl+Shift+ ; (semicolon).
Creating a chart
Excel is software that allows you to easily create charts to better explain a situation. To create a chart, you need to select the data and click on the “ Insert ” tab. This action will give you access to various pre-existing types of charts that you can choose from the Recommended Charts tab. You can also select the data to display in the chart and then press the keys ALT+F1 to generate a chart instantly.
Performing sum and average operations without a formula
When you need to calculate the sum of a column, there are predefined formulas in the spreadsheet that save time. Indeed, instead of applying a formula, you can simply select the relevant cells. Then, the sum of the data and their average will appear at the bottom right of the spreadsheet.