Microsoft Excel: what it is, what it's used for and how it works

Microsoft Excel It is one of the most widely used software in the world for data management and analysis. Developed by Microsoft, it is an integral part of the productivity suite. Microsoft 365 and allows to organize information, perform complex calculations and create visual reports Through graphs and tables. Its versatility makes it indispensable in numerous sectors, from business administration to scientific research.

What is Microsoft Excel

Excel is a spreadsheet that allows processing data through cells organized in rows and columns. Thanks to its advanced features, it is used for mathematical calculations, financial management, market analysis and automation of repetitive processes.

Differences between Excel versions

Excel is available in several versions with specific features:

• Excel for Microsoft 365 : provides constant updates and cloud features;

• Excel Standalone : purchasable only once, without frequent updates;

• Excel Online : free version accessible via web, with reduced features compared to the desktop ones.

What is the purpose of Excel and why is it useful

Excel is used for multiple purposes, including:

• Financial Management and Accounting : allows you to process budgets, monitor expenses and create economic forecasts;

• Business analysis and reporting : allows to process large amounts of data and create interactive dashboards;

• Database Management : used to store information, catalogue it and organize it in a structured way;

• Planning and project management : used to create schedules and monitor the progress of activities;

• Academic and scientific use : used by students and researchers for statistical analysis and advanced calculations.

How Excel works: guide to the main features

Excel is based on an interface composed of spreadsheets , each of which consists of cells where you can enter numerical, textual, or formula data. It is often used in conjunction with tools like Microsoft Access for advanced database management. Among the main features we find:

• Formulas and Functions : used to perform mathematical and statistical operations;

• Graphs and pivot tables : visualization tools for data analysis;

• Automation with macros and VBA : allows to simplify repetitive tasks and improve work efficiency;

• Collaboration and cloud Excel Online allows you to work in real time with multiple users, thanks to integration with OneDrive.

Who uses Excel

Excel is used by various professionals, including:

• Accountants and Financial Analysts to compile economic reports;

• Managers and entrepreneurs for the monitoring of business performance;

• Administrative Staff for the management of human resources and corporate organization;

• Students and teachers for educational and academic activities;

• Researchers and scientists For statistical analysis and advanced calculations.

The most useful functions of Excel

Among the most commonly used functions in Excel we find:

• SUM , MEDIA , MIN , MAX : for basic numerical calculations;

• IF , And , O : logical functions to manage conditions;

• CHAIN , STRING.EXTRACT , FIND : for the manipulation of texts;

• TODAY , NOW , DATA.DIFF : functions for managing dates and times;

• VLOOKUP , INDEX , COMPARE : functions for data search and reference.

Advanced functions and new features of Excel

In recent years, Excel has introduced advanced tools such as:

• Power Query and Power Pivot for the management and analysis of large volumes of data;

• Integration with Power BI for the creation of interactive reports;

• Artificial Intelligence Tools for predictive analysis and automated suggestions;

• Automation with VBA to optimize repetitive processes.

Microsoft Excel continues to be a benchmark for anyone who needs to manage data effectively, offering increasingly powerful tools for analysis and productivity.

Discover the different versions available by visiting the our dedicated page .