Excel is one of the most widely used software in the world, with virtually every industry using it in some capacity. With it both having a low learning curve along with a depth of possible options, it is a great resource for sports analytics.

Overview

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Microsoft Excel is a powerful spreadsheet application that is part of Microsoft Office (which Fordham students have free access to). It is designed to help users store, organize, and manipulate structured data effectively. Excel utilizes a grid of cells arranged in rows and columns, where each cell can contain numbers, text, or formulas. This allows for a wide range of uses, from simple calculations to complex data analysis.

Workbooks and Worksheets

In Excel, documents are referred to as workbooks which can contain multiple worksheets (aka spreadsheets). Each worksheet is a separate grid of cells, and users can add as many sheets as needed within a workbook. Cells are identified by their location, such as A1, which refers to the first column and first row.

Data Manipulation and Analysis

Excel is particularly known for its ability to perform mathematical and statistical operations. Users can enter formulas to calculate values, analyze data trends, and create visual representations of data through charts and graphs. Additionally, Excel supports advanced features like pivot tables and dashboards, which help in summarizing and visualizing critical metrics for better decision-making.

User Interface

The interface of Excel includes a ribbon that organizes commands into tabs, making it easier for users to access various functionalities such as formatting, sorting, and data analysis. Excel also offers templates to help users get started quickly with common tasks.

Overall, Excel is an essential tool for individuals and businesses alike, enabling efficient data management and insightful analysis.

Getting Started

Here are several resources on getting started with Excel:

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