Excel Course 3: Sorting & Graphing
Requirements
Additional Course Information
This session introduces learners to essential data analysis and visualization tools in Microsoft Excel. Participants will learn how to sort data using both standard and custom options—including sorting by cell color, font color, and custom lists—to uncover trends and insights. The session also covers the creation and customization of charts such as column, line, pie, and bar charts, with a focus on selecting the right chart type for the data and enhancing visual impact through formatting options like labels, legends, and colors.
Syllabus
Learning Objectives:
- Understand how to apply basic ascending and descending sorts on single columns while avoiding common sorting errors
- Use custom sort options (e.g., sorting by cell color, font color, or custom lists)
- Create basic charts to visually represent data sets
- Use chart tools to format and enhance visual clarity and impact
Outline:
Sorting in Excel
- Understanding the purpose and benefits of sorting data
- Recognizing and avoiding common sorting mistakes (e.g., sorting a single column)
- Applying basic sorts (ascending and descending)
- Applying custom sorts (e.g., by color or custom lists)
Charting and Graphing
- Using the Chart Design and Format tabs to customize appearance
- Creating a clustered column chart to compare data across categories
- Editing chart elements such as titles, axis labels, and legends
- Exploring other common chart types (e.g., line, bar, pie)
Chart design tools
- Using the Chart Design and Format tabs to customize appearance
- Changing chart styles and color schemes to improve readability
- Adding and adjusting data labels for clarity
- Moving charts to new sheets or repositioning within the existing worksheet
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