How to Learn Microsoft Office Excel

1. Open up Excel on your computer. You'll be greeted with a fresh spreadsheet. Play around with the software by typing data into blank cells. To get a quick understanding of Excel, some people dive right in to the process. Not every person learns by reading a book, so get an idea of what you can do before moving on to tutorials. Excel shouldn't be seen as on-the-job drudgery. You can balance checkbooks, use it for taxes and even create word puzzles. You can find lots of games to play on websites such as www.willard.k12.mo.us/co/tech/msexcel.htm that will teach you the basics while having fun.
2. Visit Microsoft Office's website for a list of training manuals and demos (see Resources). Manuals will give you step-by-step instructions on how to use Excel. Training sessions run between 30-50 minutes long, so you can choose how long to spend learning. Demos show users how to properly and time efficiently use the program.
3. Buy books that demonstrate the different functions of Excel. 'Microsoft Office Excel 2003 Step by Step' by Curtis Frye, 'Excel 2003 Bible' by John Walkenbach, and 'Excel 2003 for Dummies' by Greg Harvey are wonderful training books. You can find them at Amazon.com or www.powells.com. Check you local library's collection for these books and others written about Excel.
4. Take a class at your local library or community college. There are bountiful classes that will cover the basics and advanced skills of Excel. Prices for a class differ for those who have in-state-residency compared to those who are out-of-state. By taking a class, you are able to have one-on-one time with the teacher who can troubleshoot all of your questions. For people who are new to computers or learn better by instruction, this is the most recommended suggestion.
5. Practice on a free Excel tutorial online. You can go to www.baycongroup.com/el0.htm to use a free trail of Excel and learn how to improve your skills.
6. Meet other people learning Excel on an online message boards at www.ozgrid.com/forum/ or www.mrexcel.com/forum/index.php. You can complain, praise, or ask questions about Excel to people with a wide range of Excel skills. Oftentimes just by having an virtual support group can get you through the trails of Excel.