Introduction to Microsoft Excel is a beginner-friendly course designed to help learners understand the fundamentals of data organization, analysis, and reporting using Microsoft Excel.
Through a structured series of lessons, the course introduces key concepts such as worksheets, formulas, functions, charts, and data formatting. Learners will also explore topics such as arithmetic operations, cell referencing, data validation, lookup functions, logical functions, conditional formatting, and chart creation to build practical data management skills.
Designed for professionals, educators, students, and anyone looking to improve their data handling capabilities, this course provides a practical introduction to the tools and concepts needed to start performing calculations, managing datasets, and creating visual reports with Microsoft Excel.
By the end of the course, learners will have a foundational understanding of how Microsoft Excel works and how it can be used to streamline data tasks, support decision-making, and enhance productivity in any setting.
ABOUT THE FACILITATOR
Ikimot Agbaje is a data productivity specialist and educator focused on helping individuals and organizations leverage Microsoft Excel for efficient data management, analysis, and reporting. Her professional interests include spreadsheet automation, data visualization, business intelligence, and digital skills development, with a particular focus on Excel for building practical data solutions.
She also appears to approach problems from a practical perspective, looking at how data organization, analysis, and reporting can work together more effectively. Overall, Ikimot can be described as a data and productivity professional who helps organizations and individuals rethink and streamline the way they handle everyday data tasks.
Lesson 1 – Introduction to Excel Interface & Navigation
Duration: 2 Minute 49 Seconds
This lesson introduces the Microsoft Excel interface and helps learners understand how to navigate the platform. Participants will learn the basics of the ribbon, menus, and key tools for efficient spreadsheet management.
Lesson 2 – Understanding Workbook & Worksheet Structure
Duration: 5 Minute 2 Seconds
This lesson covers the fundamental structure of Excel workbooks and worksheets. Participants will learn how to create, rename, move, and organize sheets within a workbook for effective data management.
Lesson 3 – Data Entry & Formatting
Duration: 7 Minute 59 Seconds
This lesson focuses on entering data into cells and applying formatting. Participants will learn how to input text, numbers, and dates, as well as apply font styles, colors, borders, and alignment for better presentation.
Lesson 4 – Customizing Ribbon & Toolbars
Duration: 8 Minute 5 Seconds
This lesson explores how to personalize the Excel workspace. Participants will learn how to customize the ribbon and quick access toolbar to streamline frequently used commands and improve workflow efficiency.
Lesson 5 – Basic Arithmetic Functions – 1
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson introduces basic arithmetic operations in Excel. Participants will learn how to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division using simple formulas.
Lesson 6 – Basic Arithmetic Functions – 2
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson builds on arithmetic functions by exploring more complex calculations. Participants will learn how to use functions like SUM, AVERAGE, MIN, MAX, and COUNT for efficient data analysis.
Lesson 7 – Common Functions – 1
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson introduces commonly used Excel functions. Participants will learn how to use functions such as CONCATENATE, LEFT, RIGHT, and MID for text manipulation.
Lesson 8 – Common Functions – 2
Duration: 3 Minute 13 Seconds
This lesson continues with additional common functions. Participants will learn how to use functions like TODAY, NOW, UPPER, LOWER, and TRIM to enhance data processing.
Lesson 9 – Understanding Cell Referencing – 1
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson introduces the concept of cell referencing. Participants will learn the difference between relative, absolute, and mixed references and how to apply them effectively in formulas.
Lesson 10 – Understanding Cell Referencing – 2
Duration: 4 Minute 44 Seconds
This lesson builds on cell referencing with practical applications. Participants will learn how to use cell references across multiple sheets and workbooks for dynamic calculations.
Lesson 11 – Educational Applications of MS Excel – 1
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson explores how Excel can be used in educational settings. Participants will learn how to create grade books, track student performance, and manage class data.
Lesson 12 – Educational Applications of MS Excel – 2
Duration: 4 Minute 36 Seconds
This lesson continues with more educational applications. Participants will learn how to create attendance trackers, assignment schedules, and visual progress reports.
Lesson 13 – Data Validation – 1
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson introduces data validation to control what users can enter into cells. Participants will learn how to set validation rules for numbers, text, dates, and drop-down lists.
Lesson 14 – Data Validation – 2
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson dives deeper into data validation techniques. Participants will learn how to create custom validation rules, input messages, and error alerts for data accuracy.
Lesson 15 – Understanding Lookup Functions – 1
Duration: 4 Minute 9 Seconds
This lesson introduces lookup functions for finding data within datasets. Participants will learn how to use VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP to retrieve specific information from large tables.
Lesson 16 – Data Labels and Annotations
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson covers adding labels and annotations to data. Participants will learn how to use comments, notes, and data labels to provide context and improve clarity.
Lesson 17 – Data Labels and Annotations – 2
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson continues with advanced annotation techniques. Participants will learn how to use custom data labels in charts and apply conditional annotations for better data storytelling.
Lesson 18 – Logical Functions – 1
Duration: 3 Minute 19 Seconds
This lesson introduces logical functions for decision-making in Excel. Participants will learn how to use the IF function to create conditional statements.
Lesson 19 – Logical Functions – 2
Duration: 4 Minute 30 Seconds
This lesson builds on logical functions with nested IF statements. Participants will learn how to combine multiple conditions using AND and OR functions.
Lesson 20 – Logical Functions – 3
Duration: 5 Minute 8 Seconds
This lesson explores advanced logical functions. Participants will learn how to use IFERROR, IFS, and SWITCH functions to handle complex scenarios and errors.
Lesson 21 – Conditional Formatting
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson covers conditional formatting for visual data analysis. Participants will learn how to apply color scales, data bars, and icon sets to highlight trends and patterns.
Lesson 22 – Creating & Formatting Charts – 1
Duration: 5 Minute 7 Seconds
This lesson introduces chart creation in Excel. Participants will learn how to create basic charts such as column, bar, line, and pie charts for effective data visualization.
Lesson 23 – Creating & Formatting Charts – 2
Duration: 3 Minute 39 Seconds
This lesson explores advanced chart customization. Participants will learn how to format chart elements, add trendlines, and create combination charts for professional reporting.
Smartphone, Tablet, or Laptop
Internet Connectivity
This course is designed for professionals, educators, students, business owners, and anyone who wants to build foundational skills in data organization, analysis, and reporting using Microsoft Excel.
It is also suitable for beginners with no prior experience, as well as those looking to enhance their productivity and data management capabilities.
