Spreadsheets for Business Environments Course Outline

Chapter 1 – Applying Fundamental Excel Skills and Tools in Problem Solving

  • Identifying and correcting common errors in formatting and formulas
  • Calculating and comparing data using simple functions
  • Analyzing cell references when writing and copying formulas

Chapter 2 – Solving Problems with Statistical Analysis Tools

  • Using statistical functions to compare data values
  • Organizing and evaluating different data groupings
  • Extending the analysis with What-If, Goal Seek, and Simulation

Chapter 3 – Determining Effective Data Display with Charts

  • Visualizing Data
  • Evaluating chart sub-types
  • Exploring more advanced chart types

Chapter 4 – Applying Logic in Decision Making

  • Analyzing data using relational operators and Boolean logical functions
  • Analyzing data using IF functions and nested functions
  • Creating complex logical constructs for solving problems

Chapter 5 – Retrieving Data for Computation, Analysis and Reference

  • Performing basic Lookups to calculate and evaluate data
  • Performing more complex Lookups involving multiple worksheets and multidimensional tables
  • Nesting Lookup and reference functions to retrieve and calculate data

Chapter 6 – Evaluating the Financial Impact of Loans and Investments

  • Calculating values for simple financial transactions
  • Creating a projected cash flow estimate and amortization schedule
  • Evaluating the financial viability of alternate project options

Chapter 7 – Organizing Data for Effective Analysis

  • Importing and structuring text data in Excel worksheets
  • Analyzing data imported from a database and organizing data with a PivotTable report
  • Importing and exporting XML data

Chapter 8 – Using Data Tables and Excel Scenarios for What-If Analysis

  • Using data tables to perform break-even and sensitivity analyses
  • Using scenarios to perform What-If analysis
  • Using Excel’s data tables to create a simulation

Chapter 9 – Enhancing Decision Making with Solver

  • Solving product mix questions using Goal Seek and Solver
  • Enhancing the production plan with Solver
  • Managing transportation problems with Solver

Chapter 10 – Troubleshooting Workbooks and Automating Excel Applications

  • Preparing error-free workbooks
  • Identifying and correcting formula errors
  • Automating Excel tasks