EXCEL TRAINING MANUAL 1. INTRODUCTION TO EXCEL  1.1 WHAT IS A SPREADSHEET? Page 5 GLYPH<g3> The problem with manual sheets is that if any error is found within the data, all answers  must be erased and recalculated manually. With the computerized spreadsheet, formulas  can be written that are automatically updated whenever the data are changed. The electronic spreadsheet is laid out similar to the paper ledger sheet in that it is divided  into columns and rows. Any task that can be done on paper can be performed on an  electronic spreadsheet faster and more accurately. A spreadsheet is the computerized equivalent of a general ledger. It has taken the place of  the pencil, paper, and calculator. Spreadsheet programs were first developed for  accountants but have now been adopted by anyone wanting to prepare a budget, forecast  sales data, create profit and loss statements, and compare financial alternatives and any  other mathematical applications requiring calculations. Excel spreadsheets are commonly used across business to display financial information and  other data relevant to the running of the business. This could be information relevant to the  customer relationship management department, sales, marketing or HR. With so many business  functions now reliant on IT and the internet, Excel continues to be seen as a vital tool for  administration and the effective running of a business.  Microsoft Excel gives businesses the tools they need to make the most of their data. And when it  comes to making the most of resources, and maximizing return on investment, this is becoming  increasingly important. Firms are collecting ever-greater volumes of data from multiple sources,  including in-store-transactions, online sales and social media. They need to be able to collate  and analyze this information quickly and effectively.  Excels operates like other Microsoft (MS) office programs and has many of the same  functions and shortcuts of other MS programs. Excel is a convenient program because it allow user to create large spreadsheets,  reference information, and it allows for better storage of information.  Within excel user can organize data, create chart and perform calculations.  Excel is a computer program used to create electronic spreadsheets. 