A ton of high-paying fields require Microsoft Excel expertise. It’s one of the most common skills sought by employers. Often, the more you know, the more money you make.
To help you learn which skills to build, here are 5 advanced Excel functions that are sure to make you stand out.
1. Absolute and Relative References
Absolute and relative references are helpful Excel functions for formula writing. Using the appropriate formula, you can also copy these references into other cells.
Relative references are written as (B2), and when copied across, it adjusts the column letter. When copied downward, it will adjust the row. Absolute references are written as ($B$2) and do not copy cells across or downward.
A mixed reference combines absolute and relative references. It will lock either the column or the row depending on how you code it ($B2) or (B$2).
2. VLookup Function
One of the best advanced Excel skills to learn is the VLookup function. The VLookup function allows users to search through a list to find a particular item in one column and go back to the data from a different column in the same row.
Normally, this only works when looking at values on the right and connecting them to the corresponding values on the left. By using the VLookup function combined with the CHOOSE function, you can do this function the other way around.
3. Build Order Forms
If you’re wanting to get more advanced and detailed with your data, consider designing and building your own order forms. Though you can use order forms created by others, you have more flexibility when you create your own.
To make an order form, you can search for free step-by-step tutorials available online.
Once you’re proficient in creating your own workbooks, you’ll open up a whole host of other doors. This is why it’s one of the best Excel skills to learn.
4. Write a Nested Formula
Nested formulas allow you to combine simple Excel formulas as one. You create a nested formula by using the Excel (IF) function twice in one formula.
It’s best used when you want to test mutiple criteria and get multiple outcomes within your datasets.
If you want to get even more advanced, you can also learn C# write to Excel.
5. Build Pivot Tables
One of the best Excel tips you can incorporate into your data is Pivot tables. Pivot tables are helpful because they allow you to summarize your data fast and efficiently.
Without having to build any formulas, you can see the total amounts of all your data. Like order forms, there are many free step-by-step tutorials to teach you exactly how to build Pivot tables.
Now You Know Some of the Most Helpful Excel Functions
These are 5 valuable Excel functions that will ensure you stand out to an employer. Some of these functions are easier to learn than others, but you can learn with practice.
Since they’re more advanced functions, understanding these functions brings greater value and skills to companies. The good news is there are a ton of free tutorials and crash courses online to help you learn.
So, why procrastinate? Check out some of these Excel functions today!
And while you’re at it, be sure to check out the rest of our blog too. We have a bunch of other helpful articles that you’ll love!
