Learn more about this course.

Excel Tables and Features

In the previous section, you learned about the different chart types available in Microsoft Excel and what each chart type is best used for.

In the following step, you’ll explore Excel tables and their associated features.

Excel tables

An Excel table is not just any range of data with headings. It is a specific object that unlocks additional table-specific features. Excel tables allow you to analyse your data quickly and easily.

There are many benefits to using Excel tables because Excel recognises that each column is a separate field:

Tables are easily formatted
Table headers remain visible even when you scroll down
Filters are added to your data
Tables automatically expand when you add new rows or columns
Tables automatically name ranges
You can add totals to tables automatically
When tables automatically expand, they also expand their format
Tables drag formulas down automatically
You can create dynamic charts
Tables adjust named ranges automatically
You can add forms to facilitate entry of new data
You can use slicers and timelines to filter your data and charts.

Please take some time to review the following resources. They’ll provide you with an overview of Excel tables and an in-depth look at different Excel table functions which will make using Excel tables easier.

Click on these links to be taken to the resources:

Join the discussion

Did you, like Dany, think Excel was ‘just one big table’ or were you aware of Excel tables and its functionalities? Based on what we’ve covered so far, what do you think is the most useful feature of Excel tables for reporting business data and why?

Use the Discussion section below and let us know your thoughts. Once you’re happy with your contribution, click the Mark as complete button to check the step off, then move on to the next step.