What Even Is Microsoft Excel?
Apr 3
/
Dillon Khoubian
Microsoft Excel is one of Microsofts leading innovations in the software world. While it may be an integral part of the Microsoft Ecosystem, it has actually become an integral part of the entire world. Yet, for many that are new to learning about the online environment, Excel might seem like a large jump. Evidently, it is not, as Microsoft has made Excel quite an easy tool to use!
Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet application developed by Microsoft. It is part of the Microsoft 365 suite (formerly known as Office 365) of productivity tools and is available as a standalone product or as part of a Microsoft 365 subscription. Excel allows users to create, edit, and analyze spreadsheets with powerful data manipulation tools, advanced formulas, and built-in functions. It supports collaboration through cloud-based features and integrates with other Microsoft applications such as Word, PowerPoint, and Power BI. Excel is available for Windows, macOS, and mobile devices, with an online version accessible via a web browser.
Excel is based on a grid layout that allows each square to act as a cell for information. This permits the user to input information in designated spots, separating, yet still organizing their information. To input information you simply double click on your desired cell, and begin typing away! At the top, there is a ribbon with a plethora of tools for the user to make use of. You should not be intimidated by these tools as they are not necessary for use. If you want to learn more about them check out our Microsoft Excel Basics Course.
What Might I Use It For?
To-Do Lists
Excel allows you to create simple checklists or daily planners to organize tasks and appointments. You can use cells to mark tasks as completed or schedule your day in an organized manner.
With Excel, you can keep track of daily or monthly expenses by listing your income, bills, and spending. This helps you monitor where your money goes and plan your budget more effectively.
Inventory Management
Excel can be used to keep an organized list of household items, including purchase dates, warranty details, and maintenance schedules. This is useful for budgeting, insurance purposes, or simply staying organized.
Use Excel to record your daily habits—such as exercise, reading, water intake, or sleep patterns—and even generate charts to visualize your progress over time.
How Do I Access Excel?
Desktop Application (Microsoft Office):
1.
Install Microsoft Office (if not already installed). You’ll need a valid license (e.g., Microsoft 365 subscription or a retail copy of Office).
2.
Locate Excel on your computer:
- On Windows, open the Start menu and search for "Excel," or look under All Programs or All Apps.
- On macOS, open Finder, then Applications, and locate Microsoft Excel.
3. Launch Excel by clicking the Excel icon.
4. Sign in with your Microsoft account (if prompted) or ensure your product is activated. You can now create a new workbook or open an existing one.
1. Install Microsoft Office (if not already installed). You'll need a valid license (e.g., Microsoft 365 subscription or a retail copy of Office).
2. Locate Excel on your computer:
• On Windows, open the Start menu and search for "Excel," or look under All Programs or All Apps.
• On macOS, open Finder, then Applications, and locate Microsoft Excel.
3. Launch Excel by clicking the Excel icon.
4. Sign in with your Microsoft account (if prompted) or ensure your product is activated. You can now create a new workbook or open an existing one.
Excel Online (Office.com):
1. Open your preferred web browser (such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, etc.).
2. In the address bar, type office.com (or www.office.com) and press Enter.
3. Sign in with your Microsoft account (e.g., your Outlook or Microsoft 365 credentials).
4. Once signed in, you will see the Office homepage. Click the Excel icon from the list of apps to create a new workbook or open existing files from OneDrive.
Mobile App:
1. Open the app store on your mobile device:
2. Locate Excel on your computer:
• App Store (iOS) or
• Google Play Store (Android).
3. Install the Microsoft Excel app developed by Microsoft Corporation.
4. Open the app and sign in with your Microsoft account or create a new one. You can now create new spreadsheets or open existing ones from OneDrive, your device storage, or attached emails.
Microsoft 365 Portal:
1. Open your preferred web browser.
2. Go to portal.office.com (also known as the Microsoft 365 portal) and press Enter.
3. Sign in with your Microsoft 365 credentials.
4. From the Microsoft 365 dashboard, locate and click the Excel icon. You can then create a new workbook or open existing Excel files stored in your OneDrive or SharePoint.
Conclusion
Excel is definitely something that new users should not be intimidated of! It has helped excel the world to heights that many thought were unthinkable (see what I did there). By using Microsoft Excel, you can increase the efficiency in your life, business, and digital routine, allowing you to stay organized and resourceful.
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