To simplify the management and analysis of related data, you can convert a range of cells into an Excel table (previously known as an Excel list).
Or to know more about simplifying data analysis, you can check out this blog.
An Excel Table is a rectangular range of data that has been defined and named in a specific way. To demonstrate, I have two rectangular ranges of data. Both ranges contain the exact same data, but neither one has been defined as a table.
Next, I will convert the range on the right into a proper Table. By the way, when I say "proper table," I mean an Excel Table. This is how to do it:
Or you can use the CTRL + T shortcut. In this screenshot above, you can see that the data on the left is just a range of data, while the data set on the right has been arranged into a table. So, what are the important differences between a normal range and an Excel Table?
To begin with, all tables have a unique name. You can see this name in several places.
First, you will find the name in the name box menu, along with any other named ranges and tables. You can use this menu to directly navigate to the data in a table, even if the table is on a different worksheet.
Second, you will see the table name on the Design tab under Table Tools when any part of the table is selected. Please note that this tab disappears if I move the cursor outside the table.
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You will also find the table names listed in the Name Manager. You can open the Name Manager from the Formulas tab of the ribbon,
The pop up that comes is
Next, notice that an Excel Table has automatic formatting. By default, we get row striping and a different header format.
Table formatting is fully customizable, and you can even switch to "None" to maintain the current formatting.
Tables also have a filter applied by default. You can use this filter to sort and filter the data. The filter is optional, and you can easily turn it off.
Excel Tables serve as containers for your data, clearly indicating to Excel that the data in the marked columns and rows are related. This offers significant time-saving benefits. Firstly, you gain access to a range of list-related features automatically. Secondly, when you add a row, all formats and formulas are applied automatically.
Tables automatically expand to accommodate new data. If I copy data from a second sheet, you will notice that the table expands to include it. This makes tables ideal as a data source for charts, pivot tables, and other reports where data is frequently updated.
Second, tables provide a special formula syntax called "structured references." Structured references make it easier to write, read, and maintain formulas.
Finally, tables have convenient features for working with data in rows and columns. For example, I can use Shift + Space to select an entire row and Control + Space to select an entire column. Then, I can simply drag it to a new location in the table, and Excel won't complain about overwriting data.
SUM TABLE COLUMNS
The Excel table offers a convenient feature called the Total Row, allowing you to summarize data without using formulas. To sum the data in a table, follow these steps:
By entering data into an adjacent cell, Excel tables will automatically expand to accommodate the new information.
This feature, when combined with structured references, effortlessly establishes a dynamic range for your formulas, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
To add or remove columns and rows in an Excel table, you can utilize the Resize Table command by following these steps:
Resize the table- reduce the size screenshot below:
Resize the table- expand the table screenshot below:
When working with an Excel table, it's important to be aware of common issues that may arise:
Conclusion
Excel provides powerful features that allow you to work efficiently with your table data. By utilizing structured references instead of traditional cell references, you can create more dynamic and readable formulas. Additionally, Excel's data validation feature ensures data integrity by allowing you to define specific rules and restrictions for your table columns. With these tools at your disposal, you can streamline your data analysis process and maximize the accuracy and reliability of your Excel tables. To know more about the simulation based Excel course at keySkillset. check out the Excel Efficiency course page of the website.
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