Spreadsheets

 

A SPREADSHEET allows end users to organize numeric data in a worksheet or table format.

 

Spreadsheets are one of the most popular software packages and have been adapted to a wide range of personal and business applications.

 

Data is organized in vertically in columns and horizontally in rows.

Columns are usually identified by a LETTER, and rows by a NUMBER.

The intersection where a column meets a row is called a CELL.

Cells are named by their location in the spreadsheet, for example, C2.

 

The type of information in a cell could be any of the following:

·        Labels (text) – Identify the data

·        Values (numbers)

·        Formulas – Perform calculations on the data in the worksheet and display the

   resulting value in the cell that contains the formula

 

Formulas can be created by the user or come with the spreadsheet software.

These predefined formulas are called FUNCTIONS, and are frequently used to perform common calculations.

 

Five Categories of Spreadsheet Functions

·        Financial

·        Day & Time

·        Mathematical

·        Statistical

·        Logical

 

Steps to Creating a Spreadsheet

1.      Enter labels (or titles).

2.      Enter the data, or numbers, in the body of the spreadsheet.

3.      Enter the formulas that calculate the totals.

4.      If necessary, chart the results.

 

Three Categories of Analytical (Business) Graphics

·        Line Charts

·        Bar Charts

·        Pie Charts

 

Advantages to using a spreadsheet:

·        Totals can be calculated and displayed automatically.

·        Updating or changing data is simple and almost instantaneous.

·        Visual representation of information makes it easier to interpret and analyze.