Five steps to start enjoying this spreadsheet software
We have two major spreadsheet software programs in the market: Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets. Both have similar functionalities, and their functionalities improve as time passes. Once you open a Google account, you get the whole family, which includes Sheets, Google’s online spreadsheet software. To find the spreadsheet, just google it or look to the upper right corner of your screen. You will find small boxes; press and start scrolling until you get to Sheets.
Step 1
The above image shows the Google Sheets startup page; you either select a new (blank) spreadsheet, or you can select a template for you to update and fill with your data.
The above image shows the spreadsheet screen with its directory, menus, and work area. The look and feel is similar to other spreadsheets. It allows for the use of formulas and functions. I like the online version (you can work offline too!!) because it works seamlessly. Portability across devices is not an issue, accessibility is not an issue, and integration with other applications is not an issue. All of the above are easy to do, with no hassles.
Step 2
In the upper left side you can directly name your spreadsheet; in my example, I named it Business Passion—Test. Note that you can use uppercase and lowercase letters, special characters, and numbers. In addition, please note that at the bottom, I have renamed two tabs: (1) Simple Table and (2) Depreciation Methods. You create and rename as many tabs as you need for your work.
Step 3
Start creating your content. You can create just about anything with a spreadsheet, from simple tables and math calculations to database tables, complex statistical and financial calculations, graphs, and much more. In my example, I created a table that consists of text that describes the data. I included homogeneous data in columns (vertically); for example, description, cost, useful years, and residual value. Rows (horizontal) show the related data of each value. You can switch that if you want; for me, this is a good way to keep my data organized based on my preferences.
Step 4
Add formatting , color, and graphs. Data by itself does not tell the whole story; you can add a visual graph or format with colors to assist the readers’ understanding. For example, create borders, shading, and other details to make your data useful and relevant.
Step 5
Share your spreadsheet! Although this is not a requirement, unless you need to do it. Sheets has a share button in the upper right of your spreadsheet that allows you to send your work to your colleagues, family, or friends.
The above image shows the sharing options. You need to add all your recipients’ emails and determine the level of access. There are three levels of access: edit, comment, and view. Once you complete identifying your recipients and the level of access, just press Done.
Storage/Filing
Your work will be saved on your Google Drive; you have 15GB of data between all your Google products. You may also be instructed to save your files on your computer. I like the online version.
Conclusion:
The availability of devices capable of connecting to the internet and the fact that Google products are free to use make Google Sheets a great option if you need spreadsheet software. In addition, the endless possibilities to create and analyze information and the ease of sharing with other users with no hassle will soon make this software one of your favorites.