Blog Post

The most underrated useful feature of Excel (that you may not be using enough) 

Andy Biggs • 7 December 2020

Using table and column names should always be part of how you process spreadsheet data

What if I told you that there's a basic feature on the Microsoft Excel ribbon that is incredibly useful, but which most users ignore?

What if I told you that this feature is critical to unlocking robust data-processing in Excel?

The "Format as Table" feature allows you to treat data just like you'd treat another person - using it's name not it's reference.

In less than 5 minutes, the video explains why using table names and column names is important and shows you how to set it up.

by Andy Biggs 7 April 2021
Three things I have learned in applying the OKR framework over the past 18 months - having a positive mindset: focusing on what could be done, rather than what I have failed to do.
by Andy Biggs 25 March 2021
Why having a conscious sense of purpose can help you and your organisation be more focused and effective.
by Andy Biggs 9 March 2021
How Andy found an alternative method of creating a three year plan that actually worked to create quarterly, monthly and weekly focus in how he works. How this can be applied to organisations.
by Andy Biggs 24 February 2021
Microsoft's Power BI platform is arguably the world leading Business Intelligence Platform. Here are five simple reasons why you should use it for your management reporting instead of Excel.
by Andy Biggs 16 February 2021
Andy explains why most users should avoid the new LAMBDA feature in Excel
by Andy Biggs 8 February 2021
Don't reach for your spreadsheet until you've read this blog - there are better technology solution to start your planning processes. How about using your brain, and simple mind mapping techniques?
by Andy Biggs 4 February 2021
How to save time in budgeting and forecasting by using the 'UNPIVOT funciton in Excel
by Andy Biggs 25 January 2021
Five reasons why Power Query in Excel is like a magical new world of experience for spreadsheet users.
by Andy Biggs 19 January 2021
Excel is a great tool for solving problems, but if we stretch it's basic cell formulae capabilities too far we are heading for trouble. Most users are not using the more robust Power Query data tools which are a better way of creating long-lasting, robust solutions.
by Andy Biggs 5 January 2021
Why I've developed an alternative to New Year Resolutions and Annual Budgets. Implementing OKRs for personal delivery
Show More
Share by: