Database analysis - subtotals, filtering etc If your data is held in a sorted database, then generating subtotals is quick and easy. In this session we look at one way of doing this - and also filtering databases (using both simple and more complex filters) so that only selected rows are displayed

Excel's functions  - numerical, text, logical Excel has a huge number of inbuilt functions that work with either text or numerical data. We look at some of the more useful ones from a media data perspective  

Relative and absolute cell addresses One of the most valuable aspects of Excel formulae is their ability to use both relative and absolute (with $ signs) cell addresses. This session explains how they work  

Applying conditional formatting Manually highlighting individual cells based on specific criteria (for example, those that are above or below a certain value) is both time-consuming and error-prone. By using "conditional formatting" the task takes virtually no time at all, with 100% accuracy.  

Validating data entries You can speed up, and improve the quality of, the data entry process by using "data validation". This session covers: date validation, numerical validation and "pick from list"  

Using keyboard shortcuts As an alternative to the mouse, you can use these keyboard shortcuts (using the Ctrl key) to enter data and navigate the worksheet - and perform many other actions.  

Creating Pivot tables and charts One of Excel's most powerful features, Pivot Tables are a way of summarising large amounts of data in a simple table. They're quick to generate and flexible in use

Using Ifs and nested Ifs The "If" function allows you to vary the contents of a cell according to certain conditions. We look at both simple and more complex examples  

Using Excel's look up functions The look up functions are great time-savers when you want to transfer data from one table to another or when you're re-classifying information

Text to Columns Sometimes data that's been downloaded will need re-formatting so that each item goes in a separate cell  

Naming ranges and working with named ranges Most people use cell addresses (a1, c56 etc) in Excel formulae - but it's often more helpful to replace these with meaningful names. In this session we find out how this is done.  

Goal Seeking and Scenario Manager Getting to know two of Excels useful "what if" tools

Grouping and outlining Grouping allows you to easily select rows or columns to be collapsed and hidden so that a summary table can be instantly displayed

Edit/Go To/Special A useful technique for filling blank cells, copying data from the cell above and identifying formula cells

Macros An introduction to creating and editing macros so that repetitive tasks can be automated