Comprehensive Guide to Microsoft Excel Online Training Classes
Learning Microsoft Excel is an essential skill for professionals across various industries, from business and finance to marketing and data analysis. With the abundance of online training classes available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the best online Excel training classes, both free and paid, to enhance your skills.
1. Excel University
Website: Excel University
- Structured Learning: Excel University offers a structured progression of lessons, making it easier to learn Excel systematically.
- Campus Pass Subscription: The Campus Pass provides access to all undergraduate and master’s lessons, including live Office Hours with Q&A and full access to the Student Union.
- Courses for Continuing Education Credit (CPE): Courses are designed for accounting and finance professionals and are offered for CPE credit, making them a great option for those seeking professional development.
- Student Success Stories: Excel University boasts a large community of learners, with many success stories shared on their website.
2. Excel Skills for Business (Macquarie University)
Website: Coursera
- Free-to-Audit Course: This course is free to audit, making it an excellent starting point for beginners.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The course covers the core components of the Excel interface, formulas and functions, formatting, data management, printing, and visualization.
- High-Quality Instructional Materials: The course includes videos, practice exercises, and weekly challenges, ensuring a deep understanding of Excel basics.
- Arabic Translation Sponsored by UAE Government: The course is available in Arabic, making it accessible to a broader audience.
3. Noble Desktop’s Excel Bootcamp
Website: Noble Desktop
- Instructor-Led Learning: This bootcamp offers real-time feedback and accountability, ideal for those who prefer interactive learning.
- Small Class Sizes: With class sizes ranging from 8 to 15 students, learners receive individual attention and can interact with instructors.
- Free Retake within One Year: Students can retake the course within a year, ensuring they grasp the material thoroughly.
- Detailed Class Files and Real-World Projects: The course includes detailed class files and real-world projects, providing practical experience.
4. IBM’s Excel Basics for Data Analysis
Website: Coursera
- Free-to-Audit Course: This course is also free to audit, offering a concise and clear approach to learning Excel basics.
- Hands-on Labs: The course includes hands-on labs where students engage in real-world Excel scenarios, reinforcing practical skills.
- AI-Generated Voice and Vivid Visuals: IBM’s renowned expertise in technology makes the learning experience engaging and clear.
- Peer-Graded Assignment: By the end of the fifth week, learners participate in a peer-graded assignment, further cementing their understanding.
5. GoSkills & HubSpot Academy Excel for Marketers Course
Website: GoSkills
- Free Course: This course is free and designed for busy professionals, including marketers and business owners.
- Time-Saving Hacks: By the end of the course, learners will have mastered time-saving hacks to simplify their workflow.
- Certificate of Achievement: Learners receive a shiny certificate of achievement upon completion.
6. Microsoft’s Excel for Windows Training
Website: Microsoft
- Free Tutorials: Microsoft offers a comprehensive resource hub with free tutorials covering the latest version of Excel.
- Functional Learning Modules: The tutorials are broken down into short, practical, and easy-to-understand modules.
7. The Spreadsheet Page
Website: The Spreadsheet Page
- Free Excel Templates: This site provides professionally designed Excel templates that can be downloaded and customized for personal, business, and educational purposes.
- Excel in an Hour: This course includes 16 easy-to-digest tutorial videos, downloadable exercise files, and unlimited quiz attempts.
8. LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com)
Website: LinkedIn Learning
- High-Quality Courses: LinkedIn Learning offers over 7,000 Excel courses from various subject matter experts (SMEs).
- Exercise Files and Assessments: Many courses include exercise files and assessments to ensure learners apply their knowledge practically.
- Premium Subscription: Premium subscriptions provide unlimited access to LinkedIn Learning, including a one-month free trial.
Tips for Choosing the Right Online Excel Training Class
- Identify Your Goals: Determine what you want to achieve with your Excel skills. Are you looking for basic knowledge or advanced techniques?
- Check the Curriculum: Ensure the course covers the topics you need to learn. Look for courses that include hands-on exercises and real-world scenarios.
- Instructor Quality: Check the qualifications and experience of the instructors. Instructor-led courses often provide better feedback and accountability.
- Feedback and Reviews: Read reviews from previous learners to gauge the effectiveness of the course.
- Free vs. Paid: Consider whether you need a free introductory course or are willing to invest in a paid course for more comprehensive training.
By following these tips and exploring the options listed above, you can find the perfect online Excel training class to enhance your skills and achieve your goals in Microsoft Excel.
Additional Resources
- Mr. Excel’s Recommendations: For advanced learners, Mr. Excel provides recommendations for online courses focusing on pivots, dashboards, and power queries. Check out their forum for more insights.
- Indiana University’s Excel Essentials Series: This series includes five courses and a final online exam, providing a structured approach to learning Excel basics and advanced features.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, there’s an online Excel training class tailored to your needs. Start your journey today and master the versatile spreadsheet application that’s essential for any professional.
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Next Steps
- Enroll in a Course: Choose one of the recommended online Excel training classes from our guide that aligns with your goals. Start with the Excel University for a systematic approach.
- Practice Regularly: Utilize the free tutorials from Microsoft’s Excel Training to reinforce your newly learned skills with practical examples.
- Join Excel Communities: Connect with other learners and professionals by participating in forums and communities like Mr. Excel’s recommendations, where you can share knowledge and ask questions.
- Explore Advanced Topics: After mastering the basics, consider diving into advanced topics like PivotTables and dashboards by checking out additional resources and courses available through our website.
- Track Your Progress: Take advantage of platforms like LinkedIn Learning to track your learning progress and earn certificates, showcasing your skills to potential employers.