The Best Places to Learn Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel is an essential tool in today’s data-driven world. Whether you’re looking to improve your job skills, enhance your productivity, or simply tackle a personal project, learning Excel can open up a world of possibilities. In this article, we will explore the best places to learn Excel, ranging from free resources to premium courses tailored to your needs.

1. Microsoft’s Excel Training Center

The first and foremost resource for learning Excel is Microsoft’s official training center. This site offers a wealth of free tutorials, videos, and guides that cover both current and legacy versions of Excel. Whether you’re using Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS, you can find relevant content that suits your platform.

2. The Spreadsheet Page

Maintained by Excel expert John Walkenbach, The Spreadsheet Page is a treasure trove of tips and tricks. With over 30 years of Excel experience, Walkenbach provides invaluable advice through a dedicated Excel Tips tab that covers formatting, formulas, charts, and more. You can also download free workbooks and add-ins to complement your learning.

3. About.com’s Spreadsheets Page

Another fantastic resource is About.com’s Spreadsheets Page. This platform features thousands of illustrated how-to posts that are well-categorized by topic. From formulas to formatting tools, you can subscribe to their newsletter for the latest spreadsheet news and tips.

4. Lynda.com (Now LinkedIn Learning)

If you’re prepared to invest in your Excel education, Lynda.com, now part of LinkedIn Learning, is a worthwhile option. With over 100 Excel courses and more than 4,000 video tutorials, you can find content for every level of expertise. Subscriptions start at $19.99/month, with individual courses available for $79.

5. ExcelFrog

ExcelFrog provides useful recommendations on several blogs dedicated to learning Excel, including:

• Excel Easy: A straightforward site packed with various Excel topics presented with short articles and examples.
• ExcelJet: Focuses on concise video tutorials, while requiring a subscription for full access.
• Chandoo: Offers a plethora of free tutorials and paid courses, ensuring there’s plenty to explore.

6. GoSkills

GoSkills is known for its user-friendly approach to learning Excel. They provide over 50 free resources, including tutorials, keyboard shortcuts, and templates to foster and apply your learning effectively. Their courses cater to both beginners and advanced learners.

7. Microsoft Community

The Microsoft Community offers various free online training courses aimed at different skill levels, from beginners to advanced users. Some courses even include feedback and the potential to earn a learning certificate upon completion.

8. PrepLounge

For hands-on learners, PrepLounge suggests immersing yourself in challenging, modeling-heavy projects during your first few months. They recommend utilizing Microsoft’s free tutorials and YouTube channels like “ExcelIsFun,” “MyOnlineTrainingHub,” and “Excel Campus.” You can also explore tutorials from Excel Easy for additional practice.

Tips for Mastering Excel

• Practice with Real Data: Download a free dataset and try to solve real-world questions using Excel. This hands-on approach is immensely beneficial.
• Focus on Practical Projects: Engage in projects that require extensive usage of Excel to cement your skills.
• Join Excel Forums: Engaging with communities can provide support and insights that greatly enhance your learning experience.

Conclusion

Learning Excel is a wise investment in your professional skill set, supported by a diverse range of resources catering to various learning styles and budgets. Whether you prefer free tutorials or comprehensive courses, the options above can guide you on your journey to Excel proficiency.

At Excel Foundations, we are dedicated to providing quality educational content for Excel users of all levels. Support our mission by donating or purchasing our ebook to enhance your Excel skills further.

Next Steps

1. Explore Free Online Resources: Start your Excel learning journey by visiting Microsoft’s Excel Training Center for comprehensive tutorials and guides.
2. Dive into Specialized Sites: Check out The Spreadsheet Page for expert tips and downloadable resources that can enhance your understanding of Excel.
3. Invest in Structured Courses: Consider subscribing to Lynda.com, now LinkedIn Learning, for an extensive selection of courses covering everything from basics to advanced topics.
4. Practice with Real Data: Reinforce your skills by downloading datasets from Excel Easy and tackling practical projects to apply what you’ve learned.
5. Join Online Communities: Participate in forums like the Microsoft Community to connect with other learners and get feedback on your Excel queries.
6. Watch Video Tutorials: Enhance your learning with YouTube channels such as ExcelIsFun or MyOnlineTrainingHub for visual and practical guidance.
7. Consider Additional Learning Resources: For comprehensive reviews of various Excel learning platforms, visit this blog post that offers insights into the top resources available online.