A table is easier to analyze when each column has a consistent meaning and type. Presentation formatting should not hide inconsistent underlying values.
Before you begin
Use a copy of a fictional workbook. Keep raw data separate from the worksheet used for calculations or presentation.
Work through the idea
Define the meaning of each column and check a few records manually. Test an invalid or missing value, and distinguish the displayed format from the stored value. Keep totals or validation results visible so that another learner can verify the workbook without guessing which cells were changed.
- Use one field per column
- Validate dates and numeric values
- Keep identifiers as identifiers
Practice task
Create a fictional transactions sheet with dates, order IDs and amounts.
Check your result
Demonstrate that displayed formatting and stored values agree, including an ID with a leading zero.
A mistake to avoid
Do not use merged cells or color alone to encode essential data.
Keep a review note
Save the inputs or scenario, your reasoning and the result you checked. Explain one assumption and one case that needs more work. Revise the exercise after feedback and distinguish what you demonstrated from what remains untested.
Official reference for further study
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