Using Templates, Inserting Charts, Inserting Tables

Creating Tables

Tables in Excel: Tables in Excel are grids of cells arranged in rows and columns where you can store and manipulate data. They are essential for organizing and presenting information in a structured format.

Creating a Table:

• New Database:
  • To create a new database and table, you can start by going to File > New > Blank desktop database.
  • Enter a file name for your new database and choose a location to save it.
  • Click Create to open the new database, where a default table named Table1 is created and opens in Datasheet view. Here, you can start entering data and defining your fields.
• Existing Database:
  • Open an existing database file in Excel.
  • Navigate to the Create tab, and in the Tables group, click on Table to insert a new table within the database.
  • This new table will also open in Datasheet view, allowing you to input and manage data similar to a new database.

Best Practices for Reporting Tables:

• Audience and Usage: Consider how the table will be used and who will be viewing it.
• Simplicity and Focus: Keep tables simple, focused on data, and avoid unnecessary complexity.
• Clear Headers: Label columns and rows clearly to facilitate easy navigation and understanding.
• Formatting Considerations: Avoid merging cells excessively and use formatting options such as grouping, sequence, and subtle fills to enhance readability.
• Data Source and Attribution: Always include the source of your data and any relevant context for clarity.

Table Formatting

Formatting a Table:

• Select and Format: Choose the range of cells you want to format as a table.
• Home Tab: Navigate to the Home tab on the Excel ribbon.
• Format as Table: In the Styles group, click on Format as Table.
• Choose a Style: Select a predefined table style from the options provided.
• Confirm and Apply: Excel will prompt you to confirm the cell range selected. Ensure that the correct range is selected, and click OK to apply the chosen table style.

Creating Graphs and Charts

Graphs and Charts in Excel: Graphs and charts in Excel allow you to visually represent data, making trends and patterns easier to understand and analyze.

Steps to Create a Graph in Excel:

• Enter Data: Input your data into Excel cells.
• Insert Chart:
  • Highlight the data range you want to include in the chart.
  • Go to the Insert tab on the Excel ribbon.
  • Choose the type of chart you want to create (e.g., bar, line, pie) from the Charts group.
  • Select the specific chart subtype you prefer.
• Customization:
  • After inserting the chart, you can customize it further.
  • Use the Chart Tools tabs (Design and Format) to adjust elements like axes, titles, legends, and data labels.
  • Change colors, styles, and layouts to suit your presentation needs.
• Data Reordering and Adjustments:
  • If needed, rearrange data series by switching rows and columns.
  • Adjust axis measurements, scales, and formatting to accurately reflect your data.
• Chart Title:
  • Add a title to your chart to provide context and clarity.
  • Click on the placeholder chart title (usually "Chart Title") and type in your desired title text.
  • Use the Home tab for font formatting options to customize the appearance of the title.

Summary

• Tables in Excel are grids of cells used to organize and manage data, created either in new or existing databases.
• Formatting tables involves selecting a cell range, applying predefined styles for clarity and organization.
• Charts in Excel visualize data trends and comparisons, customized to highlight key insights through various chart types and formatting options.

These functionalities in Excel empower users to effectively structure, analyze, and present data, whether through organized tables or visually compelling charts and graphs