43 Learn More About Spreadsheet Basics
This section provides key learning resources for two popular spreadsheet programs — Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets.
Although the examples in this course primarily use Google Sheets, you can easily follow along using Excel or any other spreadsheet software.
The interfaces may differ slightly, but the core functionality remains similar across platforms.
43.1 Microsoft Excel
43.1.1 Office Quick Starts
- Download the Excel Quick Start Guide from Microsoft’s Downloadable Guides section.
This PDF includes a labeled map of Excel’s interface, helping you navigate key features and complete basic tasks efficiently.
- For guidance on starting and opening Excel workbooks, refer to the Microsoft Support: Start and Open Excel.
43.1.2 Excel Video Training
- Access a complete library of step-by-step video tutorials covering:
- Working with rows, columns, and cells
- Formatting data and spreadsheets
- Using formulas and functions
- Creating charts and pivot tables
- Working with rows, columns, and cells
- These videos are available through Microsoft’s official training portal.
43.1.3 Sort Data in a Range or Table
- Learn how to sort data by number, text, or color using Excel’s built-in sorting tools.
- Create custom sort lists to arrange data exactly as needed for your analysis.
43.1.4 Filter Data in a Range or Table
- Discover how to filter data to display only relevant information.
- Use comparison operators such as “greater than” or “top 10” to narrow your focus to key data points.
43.1.5 Format a Worksheet
- Explore how to customize spreadsheet formatting, including:
- Changing borders, shading, and cell colors
- Adjusting text alignment and fonts
- Improving overall readability and presentation
- Changing borders, shading, and cell colors
Pro Tip:
To create clean, professional spreadsheets, check out Microsoft’s Guidelines for Organizing and Formatting Data on a Worksheet.
This article provides best practices for organizing data efficiently and enhancing visual clarity.
43.2 Google Sheets
43.2.1 Google Sheets Cheat Sheet
- A one-page quick reference guide covering:
- Spreadsheet customization
- Managing rows, columns, and cells
- Sharing and collaborating with others
- Creating and managing different spreadsheet versions
- Spreadsheet customization
43.2.2 Get Started with Sheets: Create and Import Files
- A detailed step-by-step guide for new users.
- Learn how to:
- Open new spreadsheets
- Import files from other formats
- Add and organize data effectively
- Open new spreadsheets
43.2.3 Sort and Filter Your Data
- Learn to sort and filter your data in Google Sheets:
- Sort text, numbers, and colors
- Apply filters to display only the data you need
- Create, save, and remove filter views for flexible analysis
- Sort text, numbers, and colors
43.2.4 Edit and Format a Spreadsheet
- Improve spreadsheet readability with formatting tools.
- Learn to:
- Apply background colors and cell borders
- Adjust text appearance (size, font, and alignment)
- Apply themes for consistent visual design across sheets
- Apply background colors and cell borders
43.2.5 Tip
While Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets are similar in their core functionality — including formulas, functions, and calculations — there are minor differences in interface and advanced features.
If you frequently switch between the two applications, review this helpful comparison guide:
Overview: Differences Between Sheets and Excel.
This resource highlights the key distinctions to help you transition smoothly between both environments.