Learn the basics of Microsoft Excel (MS365) to boost your productivity and collaborate effectively.
Microsoft Excel is the most widely used software in businesses across all industries. Yet the vast majority of users only utilize a tiny fraction of its capabilities and waste valuable time performing repetitive tasks or figuring out how to format their data.
Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by grids, cells, and error messages?
This introductory course is specifically designed to demystify the spreadsheet. Step by step, you’ll learn how to navigate the interface, create professional-looking spreadsheets, and automate basic calculations—turning this intimidating tool into an indispensable ally in your daily work.
Is it for you ?
This training is intended for anyone (support staff, administrative assistants, managers, professionals) who is new to Microsoft Excel or who has learned the program “on the job” and wishes to acquire a solid foundation and effective work methods.
Prerequisites
This training is not suitable for users with Mac computers.
What You'll Walk Away With
- ✓ Get started right away: Be able to create a functional spreadsheet as soon as you return to the office.
- ✓ Eliminate errors: No more manual calculations with a calculator—let Excel do the work (and without errors!).
- ✓ Save time: Discover tips and shortcuts for entering data quickly without having to retype everything.
- ✓ Professional presentation: Learn how to format your cells so your documents are clear and easy for your colleagues to read.
Training content
During this training, you will learn the basics of Excel spreadsheets and become familiar with its environment, interface, and essential tools. You will learn how to manipulate, organize, and analyze data effectively, while discovering key features to optimize your use of the software.
1 Getting Started and Navigation
- Exploring the interface: the Ribbon, the formula bar, and worksheets.
- Navigating efficiently within a large spreadsheet.
- Selection principles (cells, rows, columns).
2 Data Entry and Management
- Different data types (text, numbers, dates).
- Using the fill handle (auto-fill) to save time.
- Inserting, deleting, and hiding rows/columns.
3 Essential Formulas and Functions
- The golden rule of formulas (start with =).
- Basic mathematical operators (+, -, *, /).
- Relative and absolute references (the famous $ symbol).
- Essential functions: SUM, AVERAGE, MIN, MAX, COUNT.
4 Formatting and Presentation
- Formatting cells (borders, colors, fonts, alignment).
- Number formats (currency, percentage, dates).
- Introduction to conditional formatting (highlighting data).
5 Charts and Printing
- Creating a simple chart (pie charts, bar charts) to visualize data.
- Challenges of printing in Excel: defining a print area, fitting to one page, repeating headers.
📌 Practical information
Our training sessions are offered in Montreal or Quebec City, in person or in a virtual classroom. Dates and locations are specified when you select your session below. If you have any questions, check out our FAQ.
