Data Analysis with Spreadsheets

Data Analysis with Spreadsheets is the practice of using software applications like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets to inspect, clean, transform, and model data to support decision-making. This foundational skill within data science leverages core features such as formulas and functions for calculations, sorting and filtering for data organization, and pivot tables for powerful data aggregation and summarization. By creating charts and graphs directly from the data, analysts can visualize trends and patterns, making it a fundamental and highly accessible method for drawing insights and communicating findings without the need for complex programming.

1. Introduction to Spreadsheets for Data Analysis
   1. The Role of Spreadsheets in Data Analysis
      1. Accessibility and Ubiquity
         1. Cross-Platform Availability
         2. Industry Applications
         3. Cost-Effectiveness
      2. Strengths and Limitations
         1. Advantages for Small to Medium Datasets
         2. Performance Limitations with Large Data
         3. Memory and Processing Constraints
         4. Comparison with Specialized Analytics Tools
         5. When to Use Spreadsheets vs Other Tools
   2. Key Spreadsheet Applications
      1. Microsoft Excel
         1. Desktop Version Features
         2. Excel Online Capabilities
         3. Excel Mobile Applications
         4. Power Query and Power Pivot Add-ins
         5. Analysis ToolPak
      2. Google Sheets
         1. Cloud-Based Architecture
         2. Real-Time Collaboration Features
         3. Google Workspace Integration
         4. Add-ons and Extensions
         5. Offline Functionality
      3. Alternative Spreadsheet Applications
         1. LibreOffice Calc
         2. Apple Numbers
         3. Zoho Sheet
         4. WPS Office Spreadsheets
   3. The Spreadsheet Environment
      1. Basic Interface Components
         1. The Grid Structure
         2. Cells, Rows, and Columns
         3. Cell Addresses and Range Notation
         4. Row and Column Headers
      2. Navigation and Selection
         1. Moving Between Cells
         2. Selecting Single Cells and Ranges
         3. Selecting Non-Contiguous Ranges
         4. Keyboard Navigation Techniques
      3. Worksheets and Workbooks
         1. Understanding Workbook Structure
         2. Adding and Deleting Worksheets
         3. Renaming and Reordering Sheets
         4. Sheet Tab Colors and Organization
         5. Copying and Moving Worksheets
      4. Interface Elements
         1. Ribbon and Menu Systems
         2. Toolbar Customization
         3. Formula Bar Functions
         4. Status Bar Information
         5. Zoom and View Options
   4. Understanding Data Types in Spreadsheets
      1. Text Data
         1. Text Recognition and Entry
         2. Leading Zeros in Text
         3. Text Formatting Considerations
         4. Special Characters and Encoding
      2. Numeric Data
         1. Integer and Decimal Numbers
         2. Scientific Notation
         3. Negative Number Formats
         4. Currency and Accounting Formats
         5. Percentage Values
      3. Date and Time Data
         1. Date Format Recognition
         2. Time Format Recognition
         3. Serial Number System
         4. Date and Time Calculations
         5. Regional Date Format Differences
      4. Boolean Data
         1. TRUE and FALSE Values
         2. Logical Value Applications
         3. Boolean in Conditional Formulas