Data Analysis using Spreadsheets

1. Introduction to data analysis and spreadsheets

What is data analysis?

Graphic showing data and charts on a spreadsheet.

A spreadsheet is an electronic document that allows you to arrange data in rows and columns. Spreadsheet programs allow you to perform calculations and other operations on the data in the spreadsheet. There are many spreadsheet programs, but Microsoft Excel is one of the most common options.

Microsoft Excel

The diagram below shows the main window of the Excel program when it is opened. The diagram is labelled with the main components and features of this program.

Graphic showing the controls of an Excel spreadsheet