Computer Science 01/29/2025

Topics
Conditional formatting in Excel

Conditional formatting in Excel allows users to set rules to automatically format cells based on
specified conditions, enhancing data visualization and analysis.

Users can apply various formatting styles such as color, font, and borders to highlight
important data trends.
Common conditions include text or number values, date ranges, data bars, and icon sets.
Cell formatting can be based on formulas to create dynamic rules that adjust automatically
as data changes.
Conditional formatting can help users quickly identify patterns, outliers, or errors within a
dataset.

Data filtering in Excel

Data filtering in Excel involves sorting and displaying specific data based on set criteria, allowing
for efficient data analysis.

Filtering options include sorting by values, colors, or custom criteria.

Utilize Excel's filter feature to temporarily hide rows that don't meet specified criteria.
Apply multiple filters to refine data selection further.
Use filter views to save and quickly switch between different filter settings.

Data sorting in Excel

Data sorting in Excel involves arranging data in a spreadsheet in a specific order, typically based
on criteria such as numbers or alphabetical order.

To sort data in Excel, select the range of cells to be sorted and go to the 'Data' tab, then click
on the 'Sort' button.
Excel allows for sorting data in ascending or descending order and can be done based on
multiple columns or criteria.
When sorting data in Excel, make sure to include headers for each column to avoid
misalignment of data during the sorting process.
Sorting data in Excel is a useful tool for organizing information efficiently and making it easier
to analyze and work with.

Data visualization in Excel

Data visualization in Excel involves creating graphical representations of data to easily identify
trends, patterns, and insights for better decision-making.

Excel offers various chart types such as pie charts, bar graphs, and scatter plots for
visualizing data.
Data visualization in Excel can be enhanced by using color coding, data labels, and different
formatting options.
Conditional formatting in Excel allows users to visually highlight specific data points based
on set conditions.
Excel's pivot tables and pivot charts provide dynamic data visualization capabilities for
analyzing and summarizing large datasets.

Excel charts

Excel charts are visual representations of data, allowing users to easily analyze and interpret
information through various types of graphs.

Types of Excel charts include column, line, pie, bar, area, scatter, and more.
Users can customize Excel charts by changing colors, labels, data series, and chart styles.
Excel charts can be linked to data ranges, making it easy to update the chart with new
information.
Excel charts are useful for presenting trends, comparisons, and patterns in data visually.

Excel Formulas

Excel Formulas are used to perform calculations, manipulate data, and automate tasks in
spreadsheets.

Functions are pre-built formulas in Excel that help perform specific calculations or actions.
Formulas start with an equal sign (=) followed by cell references, operators, and constants.
Absolute references ($A$1) in formulas remain constant, while relative references (A1)
change when copied to different cells.
Using named ranges in formulas can make them easier to read and manage.

Excel Functions

Excel Functions are built-in formulas in Excel used to perform specific calculations or manipulate
data. They simplify complex tasks and enhance data analysis.

Functions can be used for mathematical calculations, data manipulation, text editing, and
more.
Examples of popular Excel functions include SUM, AVERAGE, IF, VLOOKUP, and
CONCATENATE.
Functions can be combined or nested within each other to create more complex formulas.
Excel provides a wide range of predefined functions, but users can also create custom
functions using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA).
Excel macros

Excel macros are small programs created in Excel to automate tasks, increase efficiency, and
improve accuracy by recording a series of actions and executing them when needed.

Macros can be created using the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) programming language.
Macros can save time by automating repetitive tasks such as data entry, formatting,
calculations, and report generation.
Excel macros can be recorded by performing actions manually or written using VBA code for
more complex functionalities.
Macros can be assigned to buttons for easy access and execution within the Excel interface.

Pivot tables in Excel

Pivot tables in Excel are advanced tools used to summarize and analyze large data sets by
arranging and categorizing information efficiently.

Pivot tables allow users to dynamically reorganize and display data to extract valuable
insights.
Users can apply functions to pivot table data, such as sum, count, average, and more, to
perform calculations.
Filters can be applied within pivot tables to focus on specific subsets of data for detailed
analysis.
Pivot tables can be customized with various settings like formatting, sorting, and grouping to
tailor the presentation of data.

Key Terms
absolute reference

Absolute reference is a type of reference used in programming that points to a fixed location in
memory.

Absolute reference is often used when working with arrays or dynamically allocated memory.
It is used to access data at a specific memory location, regardless of its position in relation to
other memory locations.
When using absolute references, care must be taken to ensure that the referenced memory
location is valid and accessible.
In some programming languages, absolute references can be used to manipulate low-level
hardware or memory directly.

ActiveX controls
ActiveX controls are components used to add interactivity and functionality to web pages, often
developed by Microsoft for Internet Explorer.

ActiveX controls can be used to enhance the user experience on websites.

They are typically created using programming languages like C++ and Visual Basic.
ActiveX controls are known for their potential security risks due to vulnerabilities that can be
exploited by malicious software.
These controls are supported primarily in Internet Explorer and may not work in other web
browsers.

Bar Chart

A bar chart is a graphical representation of data in which bars of varying lengths are used to
represent different categories or quantities.

Bar charts provide a visual way to compare values across different categories or groups.
The length of each bar in a bar chart corresponds to the value being represented.
Bar charts are commonly used to display categorical data or to show the frequency
distribution of data.
The x-axis of a bar chart represents the categories or groups being compared, while the y-axis
represents the values or frequencies.

cell

In computer science, a cell refers to a simple data structure that can store a single piece of
information or value.

Cells are often used to create data structures such as arrays, linked lists, and tables.
A cell can also refer to a unit of memory in a computer system, used for storing and
accessing data.
Cells can be used to represent individual pixels or elements in a grid or matrix in computer
graphics.
Cells are commonly used in spreadsheets, where each cell holds a value that can be
manipulated and used in calculations.

cell referencing

Cell referencing is a method of identifying and retrieving the value stored in a specific cell within
a spreadsheet or table.

Commonly used in applications like Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets to create formulas
and manipulate data.
Involves using a combination of letters and numbers (e.g., A1, B2) to refer to a cell's location.
Can be absolute (e.g., $A$1) to always refer to the same cell or relative to adjust the reference
when copied to different cells.
Errors can occur if cell references are not updated correctly when copying formulas or if the
 referenced cell is deleted.

Collaboration features in Excel

Excel offers collaboration features such as real-time co-authoring, shared workbooks,

comments, and track changes to facilitate team collaboration on spreadsheets.

Real-time co-authoring allows multiple users to work simultaneously on a spreadsheet.

Shared workbooks enable users to access and edit the same file from different locations.
Adding comments to cells or ranges allows collaborators to provide feedback and
communicate within the spreadsheet.
Track changes feature highlights modifications made by different users, helping to keep track
of revisions.

Column

In the context of databases, a column refers to a vertical arrangement of data within a table,
representing a specific attribute or field.

A column typically has a name and a data type, such as string, number, or date.
Columns in a database table are used to store different types of data, such as names,
addresses, or numerical values.
Each column in a table is designed to hold one type of data, ensuring data integrity and
enabling efficient querying.
A column can also have constraints, such as uniqueness or foreign key relationship, to
enforce data consistency and integrity.

COUNTIF

COUNTIF is a function that allows users to count cells based on specified criteria in
spreadsheets or databases.

It helps analyze data by counting the number of cells that meet certain conditions.
The function can be used to find duplicates, identify trends, or analyze patterns in a dataset.
COUNTIF is commonly used in data manipulation tasks, such as filtering and sorting
information.
It streamlines data analysis processes and makes it easier to extract meaningful insights
from large datasets.

Dashboard

A dashboard is a user interface that provides a visual representation of important data and
information through charts, graphs, and widgets.
 A dashboard allows users to monitor key metrics and trends at a glance.
It can be customized to display specific data relevant to the user's needs.
Dashboards often offer interactivity, allowing users to drill down into specific details.
They are commonly used in business intelligence to aid in decision-making and performance
tracking.

Data Table

A data table is a way to organize data into rows and columns, allowing for easy sorting, filtering,
and analysis.

Tables are commonly used in spreadsheets to store and display information.

Data tables can range from simple two-dimensional tables to more complex
multidimensional tables.
Each row represents a single record, while each column represents a different attribute or
field of the data.
Data tables are versatile tools that are essential for storing and manipulating large amounts
of information efficiently.

Data validation

Data validation refers to the process of ensuring that data entered into a system is accurate,
complete, and conforms to specified rules or criteria.

Data validation helps maintain data integrity and prevents errors and inconsistencies in data.
Techniques of data validation include range checks, format checks, and cross-field checks.
Data validation minimizes the risk of incorrect or misleading results in data analysis or
processing.
It is an essential step in data management and quality assurance processes.

Excel add-ins

Excel add-ins are third-party extensions that enhance the functionality of Excel by providing
custom features and tools to improve productivity and streamline workflows.

Add-ins can automate tasks, analyze data, create custom functions, or integrate with external
systems.
They are typically developed using programming languages like VBA, JavaScript, or C#.
Add-ins can be installed from the Microsoft AppSource or developed independently for
specific business needs.
They help users customize Excel to meet their specific requirements and improve overall
efficiency.

Excel templates
Excel templates are pre-designed spreadsheets that provide a structured format for data entry
and analysis in Microsoft Excel.

Templates can save time by eliminating the need to create a spreadsheet from scratch.
Users can customize templates to suit their specific needs by adding or modifying elements.
Excel templates often include built-in formulas and functions to automate calculations and
data processing.
Templates can be shared with others, making it easier to collaborate on projects.

Form Controls

Form Controls are tools used in creating user interfaces to gather data or information, such as
text boxes, radio buttons, checkboxes, and dropdown menus.

Each form control has a specific purpose in collecting user input and serving as an interactive
element on a webpage.
Form Controls can be styled using CSS to customize their appearance and enhance the
overall user experience.
Validation can be applied to form controls to ensure that users provide correct and complete
data before submission.
Implementing proper accessibility features for form controls is crucial to make web forms
usable for individuals with disabilities.

Goal Seek

Goal Seek is a method to find the input value needed to achieve a desired output, commonly
used in numerical analysis.

It involves iteratively adjusting input values until the desired output is reached.
Goal Seek is helpful for solving equations that do not have analytical solutions.
Excel's Goal Seek function is a popular example used for determining input values to achieve
a specific output.
Goal Seek can be used in various fields such as finance, engineering, and mathematics.

Histogram

A histogram is a graphical representation of data that organizes data into bins and displays the
frequency of each bin.

Histograms are useful for understanding the distribution of data and identifying patterns or
outliers.
The height of each bar in a histogram represents the frequency or count of data points falling
within that bin.
Histograms can be created for various types of data, including numerical and categorical
data.
Histograms are commonly used in statistics, data analysis, and data visualization.
HLOOKUP

HLOOKUP is a function used in spreadsheets to search for a value in the top row of a table and
return a corresponding value from a specified row.

It is part of the lookup and reference functions in spreadsheet software.

HLOOKUP stands for horizontal lookup.
The function has four primary parameters: lookup_value, table_array, row_index_num, and
range_lookup.
It is useful for retrieving specific data in a spreadsheet based on criteria in the top row.

Index

In Computer Science, an index is a data structure that improves the efficiency of data retrieval by
storing and organizing key-value pairs.

Indexes allow for faster searching and retrieval of data by creating a direct mapping between
the search key and the corresponding data.
An index can be implemented using various data structures, such as hash tables, B-trees, or
binary search trees.
Indexes are commonly used in databases to optimize queries, as they reduce the amount of
disk I/O needed to locate specific data.
To maintain index consistency, data modifications (inserts, updates, and deletes) usually
require index updates as well.

Line Chart

A line chart is a graphical representation of data that displays information as a series of data
points connected by straight line segments.

Line charts are commonly used to show trends over time.

The x-axis represents different points in time, while the y-axis represents the values of the
data.
Line charts are useful for visualizing continuous data.
The slope of the lines can provide insights into the rate of change of the data.

MATCH

In programming, 'MATCH' is a function used to search for a specified pattern within a given set of
data or string.

It returns the position or index where the pattern is found, or a specific result based on the
matching criteria.
 It allows for more complex comparisons and pattern matching, often used in text
manipulation and analysis.
The 'MATCH' function can be case-sensitive or case-insensitive, depending on the
requirements of the search operation.
It is commonly used in tasks like searching for keywords in a document, validating user input,
and filtering datasets.

Named Ranges

Named Ranges allow assigning a label to a range of cells in a spreadsheet, making it easier to
reference data.

Named ranges can be used in formulas for better clarity and readability.
Users can quickly navigate to specific data areas using named ranges.
Named ranges help with maintaining and updating spreadsheet formulas.
Defining named ranges can improve efficiency when working with large sets of data.

Pie Chart

A pie chart is a circular statistical graphic divided into slices to represent proportionate parts of a
whole.

Each slice of the pie chart represents a different category or data point.
The size of each slice is proportional to the quantity it represents.
Pie charts are useful for comparing the sizes of various categories.
They are commonly used to display percentages or proportions in data visualization.

Power Pivot

Power Pivot is a data analysis tool that allows users to create data models, perform calculations,
and generate insights within spreadsheet programs.

Enables users to handle large datasets efficiently with advanced features like DAX formulas.
Integrates seamlessly with Excel, enhancing its data processing capabilities.
Allows for the creation of relationships between different data sources for comprehensive
analysis.
Provides interactive data visualizations and reporting tools for better decision-making.

Power Query

Power Query is a data processing tool used for transforming, cleaning, and manipulating large
datasets efficiently.

It is integrated with Microsoft Excel and Power BI.

 It allows users to merge, filter, and reshape data.
Users can create custom functions using M language.
Power Query eliminates manual data manipulation tasks.

Quick Access Toolbar

The Quick Access Toolbar is a customizable toolbar in applications that allows users to quickly
access commonly used commands and functions.

Users can add or remove commands on the toolbar based on their preferences.
It is usually located at the top of the application's window for easy access.
Customizing the Quick Access Toolbar can improve productivity by reducing the time spent
searching for specific commands.
The toolbar is designed to streamline workflow and enhance user experience.

relative reference

In the context of referencing, a relative reference refers to a reference that is based on the
current position or location.

A relative reference does not have a fixed or absolute value.

It is typically used in programming languages to refer to elements within a code block.
A relative reference can be used to access data or objects that are relative to the current
position.
It is often used in HTML and CSS to reference files or resources within the same directory.

Ribbon

In computing, a Ribbon is a graphical control element comprised of a strip of icons or buttons

used to perform various functions.

Ribbon interfaces are commonly found in productivity software like Microsoft Office.
The Ribbon typically organizes commands into tabs, groups, and individual commands for
easy navigation.
Users can sometimes customize the Ribbon by adding or removing commands to suit their
preferences.
Ribbon layouts can vary, with some programs offering collapsible or minimizable options to
maximize screen space.

Row

In computing, a 'Row' refers to a horizontal arrangement of data elements within a table or

matrix.
 Rows are commonly used to organize and represent data in a structured way.
Each row typically consists of multiple columns, with each column holding a specific piece of
information.
In database management systems, rows are also known as records, containing a complete
set of related data.
Rows play a crucial role in operations such as sorting, filtering, and searching for specific
information.

Scatter Plot

A scatter plot is a graph that displays the relationship between two numerical variables, using a
collection of points.

The independent variable is plotted on the x-axis while the dependent variable is plotted on
the y-axis.
Scatter plots can show patterns or trends in data.
They can also be used to detect outliers or anomalies in the data.
Lines can be added to the scatter plot to visualize the correlation between the variables.

Sparklines

Sparklines are small, simple data visualization tools that convey trends or variations in a
condensed format.

Originally created by Edward Tufte, sparklines are often used to be embedded within text or
tables for quick data analysis.
They do not have axes or labels, focusing solely on the trends in the data they represent.
Sparklines can represent various data types like line charts, bar charts, and other chart types
in a compact form.
They can be effective in highlighting patterns and changes in data over time with minimal
space utilization.

SUMIF

SUMIF is a function used in spreadsheets to sum values that meet specific criteria, providing a
way to calculate totals based on conditions.

It operates by taking three arguments: the range of cells to evaluate, the criteria to apply, and
the range of cells to sum.
The criteria can be entered as a number, expression, cell reference, or text.
SUMIF can be combined with other functions like IF and AND to create more complex
conditions for calculating sums.
It helps in performing conditional summation tasks efficiently in spreadsheet applications like
Excel and Google Sheets.
VLOOKUP

VLOOKUP is a function used to search for a value in a table and return a corresponding value
from another column.

Used in spreadsheets like Excel to locate and fetch data based on a lookup value.
Requires at least three parameters: lookup value, lookup range, column index number.
Not case-sensitive by default; can be adjusted to do exact matches.
If lookup value is not found, it can return an error or a specified result.

What-If Analysis

What-If Analysis involves examining various scenarios to predict outcomes, assisting decision-
making processes based on hypothetical changes and their potential impacts.

Commonly used in financial modeling to project potential revenue outcomes based on

different variables.
Can be utilized to optimize strategies in business planning by simulating the effects of
different decisions.
Helps in risk assessment by exploring different possibilities and their consequences, aiding
proactive decision-making.
Enables experimentation with different parameters to understand their effects, aiding in
predicting future outcomes accurately.

Workbook

A workbook is a document or file that contains multiple worksheets or spreadsheets used for
organizing and analyzing data.

Worksheets within a workbook can be used for different purposes such as data entry,
calculations, and data visualization.
Workbooks can include formulas and functions to perform calculations on the data.
Formatting options in a workbook allow for customization of the appearance of data.
Workbooks can be saved and shared in different file formats like .xlsx or .csv.

Worksheet

A worksheet is a document or file where data can be organized and manipulated, typically used
for calculations, data analysis, and documentation.

Worksheets can contain formulas and functions to perform calculations automatically.

They often provide a grid-like structure for organizing data in rows and columns.
Worksheets are commonly used in spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel.
They can be used for data entry, data analysis, financial calculations, and creating visual
representations of data.