Blog 6: Spreadsheets

Excel and the use of spreadsheets can organize one's life in just minutes. Excel can be especially useful for a teacher in the classroom as well. For example, a teacher can create a grade book for each class and make changes that will automatically update the rest of the information that would be mathematically affected by the change. Lets take a look at what constitutes a spreadsheet. A spread sheet is made up of columns, rows and cells. Within each cell such data as text (labels, names), number data (constants), and formulas (equations), can be inserted. The COLUMN is the vertical space that is up and down the window and designated by capital letters located along the top of the spreadsheet. The horizontal space that is going across the window is a ROW designated with numbers along the left side of the spreadsheet. Throughout the spreadsheet are intersections where the rows and columns meet; these intersections are called CELLS. The cell is designated by it's column letter and row number. Three different types of data that can be entered into a cell are labels, constants and formulas. LABELS are text values with no numerical information and are typically used for identifying what is being talked about so that we know the topical information of the column or row. CONSTANTS are fixed number information with a fixed value. FORMULAS are entries that consist of an equation that calculates the value of given information. Upon the change of number data, the value will be updated based on the formula when referenced by the cell number and not the actual data number. All formulas begin with an equal sign and, a list of functions are provided in excel under the insert menu. When using functions it is best to reference the cells as much as possible as opposed to typing data in equations. This is so that you don't have to type the information in again and if information changes you don't have to change the equation. There are many different functions that can be used in excel. Some examples are max, min, sum, average, count, IF, etc... Once you have your information into the spreadsheet it can look pretty boring. To "dress" it up a bit you can go to the format menu and format the text and numbers to your liking. As things change or mistakes happen, there are many adjustments that may be made into a spreadsheet without having to start over. Excel is a useful tool for anyone who knows how to use it. Because it is flexible, fast and accurate it can appeal to both teacher and student.