Everyone looks at data differently. Some people create Excel spreadsheets where the main fields go across horizontally in a row. Others put the data vertically. Sometimes these preferences lead to a scenario where you want to transpose Excel data. Transpose is an Excel function that allows you to convert Excel columns to rows without retyping the data. (Includes sample worksheet)
Excel
Below is a list of the Microsoft Excel tutorials that I’ve written. Many include step-by-step instructions. In some cases, there may be practice spreadsheets or video screencasts.
I’ve also been updating these articles to reflect the latest Excel version. Presently, I’m using Microsoft 365. However, you may see some tutorials that reflect older versions. All the screen captures have been done on a Windows computer and reflect those commands.
If you don’t have Microsoft Excel, there are three options:
- Get a Microsoft 365 (Subscription service)
- Buy Microsoft Office 2021 (One time purchase)
- Use the free version in your browser.
The free version does require you to have a Microsoft account. As you might expect of a free product, there are limitations. For example, you can open a workbook with macros, but you won’t be able to edit them.
I also did an article discussing the different Microsoft Office versions. One key item to remember is that the newest features will appear in Microsoft 365 first and in the Beta channel.
For example, Microsoft released in March 2022 a series of new text functions that will make text manipulation easier. These include:
- TEXTBEFORE
- TEXTAFTER
- TEXTSPLIT
Microsoft also has an Excel Glossary that you can use.
Easy Formulas to Extract Text from Excel Cell
Excel is a great tool, but sometimes the spreadsheet files we get to work with aren’t ideal. One example is a file with a data column, maybe a street address, that you’d really like to pull parts. In this tutorial, I’ll show how to extract text from a cell in Excel using some useful text functions. (Includes practice workbook.)
How to Use VLOOKUP in Excel
One of the popular Excel tutorial requests is how do you look up a value on one Excel worksheet and use it on another Excel worksheet? For example, you need to translate a product number into a product name. One of my favorite functions is the VLOOKUP function and it can help with this task. (Includes example spreadsheet and video.)
How to Separate Names in Excel
Recently, a friend asked about fixing an Excel spreadsheet where the subscriber name was in 1 column. He wanted the name separated so he could send a personalized mailing. This is not the first time this question has arisen. The key to solving this problem is to parse or split the data using the Text to Columns feature. Includes workaround when you have middle names or initials too.
How to Freeze Row and Columns in Excel – 4 Scenarios
Small Excel spreadsheets are easy to work with. However, when you start to get lots of columns and rows, it can become overwhelming as your headings scroll off. The solution is Excel Freeze Pane. It’s an easy solution that lets you lock content in so it’s always visible.
Speed Up Data Entry with Excel Data Forms
I hate inputting data. It’s mind-numbing and given a chance, I’ll make mistakes. One way to speed up Excel data entry is to use an Excel form. These data entry forms are especially beneficial when your records span across many columns. In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to create a data entry form in Excel.
See How to Get Fast Answers With Excel Goal Seek
Have you ever stared at your spreadsheet and wondered how to find the answer to a “what-if” scenario? Let’s start with the goal in mind. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to use Goal Seek in Excel to answer these and other analysis questions. (Includes video and example spreadsheet.)
Use Excel Conditional Formatting to Highlight Cells
Have you ever stared at a spreadsheet looking for the important stuff? The problem with many spreadsheets is all the cells look the same. So you have to hunt for key information. In this tutorial, I’ll show how to highlight cells in Excel using built-in conditional formatting criteria. (Includes practice file.)
How to Find Invalid Email Addresses in Excel
This week was one where multiple requests converged. I had two friends that needed to send emails to their customers. One had their information in an Excel spreadsheet and the other exported their internal databases to Excel. Both thought there were problems with many email addresses and wanted to know if there was an easy way to find invalid email addresses before sending out the emails.
Excel AutoFilter Makes Spreadsheets Useful
Learn how to use Excel autofilters to make large spreadsheets more manageable. This feature lets you filter columns by specific entry values. Includes sample spreadsheet.