Obtaining a Solid Grasp on Pivot Tables
Many individuals especially Excel users have heard about pivot tables, but only a few would depend on them for some reasons. Some people think that this Excel functionality is too complicated to understand and too daunting to study. On the other hand, some people think that these tables will make their job more complex and more work on their end. On the contrary, this powerful Microsoft feature only takes very little time for you to understand its basic concepts. It is one of the skills that is highly required by small and large organizations, and these establishments even require individuals to have this type of Excel knowledge before hiring new employees. This simply denotes the grave importance of advanced Microsoft Excel skills and knowledge.
The Steps:
Understanding pivot tables require a couple of steps. The most important is obtaining your database. You can create a short list of data and numeric values while studying the function and while trying to find out more about these tables. On the other hand, if you have your database, you can use them and paste the values on your spreadsheet. Remember to keep a copy of your original database just in case you mess your practice sheet; you still have your original copy intact. For beginners, you can always choose a smaller database. There are different database formats that you can download from the internet which you can use when you’re trying to figure out how to make the most out of these Microsoft Excel functionalities. As soon as you have your database ready, creating a spreadsheet or Pivot Chart is easy. This option can be found from the Menu - > Pivot Charts.
Pivot Tables primarily use two basic types of data: text fields which contain the labels or also called as the headers, and numeric and / or text fields which you can filter and summarize. Sure, in basic Excel, you can summarize these values. You can include formulas too, but you have to first sort the values before you can perform these actions. Through your pivottables, there is no need for you to summarize and sort these pieces of information. In fact, this function does it for you and you only have to copy the results and paste it in your reports. Easy?
There are also some wizards that will help you setup your own table – which even makes it easier for you to get started. If you’re using Microsoft Excel 2007 and 2010, creating your table takes faster than the previous versions. This is why it is also important for you to update your Microsoft Excel version if you want your work to be easier and faster.
Important Note: Pivot tables contain important headers, which you have to label carefully. Page Area, Data Area, the Row and the Column areas. Familiarizing yourself with these areas makes it easier for you to fully understand what pivot tables are. Plus, if you’re looking for more features and if you want to dig further, you can always search for a coach or a tutor that can discuss these important points in detail.
