As a Microsoft trainer, I often get the same type of questions asked in each class. My classes consist of different students in different industries, but I notice they all have the same types of questions and concerns when it comes to Microsoft products. Their questions and concerns typically come from a lack of training or understanding of these products.

With Excel, I have noticed efficiency concerns are typically the major problem for students. They tend to do redundant tasks repeatedly because no one ever showed them a better way. They often have questions but do not know who or how to ask these questions. Here is a list of my top three Excel time saver questions that I answer constantly.

Question One: How do I fill in redundant patterns of data quickly?

Excel Autofill is an Excel feature that lets you drag out a pattern of numbers or data. This can be a time saver when you need to quickly create a list of numbers, alphabet, days of the week, or months of the year.

Using Excel autofill, you can also create patterns in data and drag out the pattern to other cells in your worksheet.

The key to understanding Excel autofill is to understand the different mouse pointer indicators and knowing what data you want copied in your worksheet.

Question Two: How do I freeze the top row of my worksheet so I always see the top row or first column?

When you move in your Excel worksheet, you will notice that the worksheet moves with you. Depending on how far down (or right) you move, you may lose your column or row headers.

Freezing your columns, rows, and cells can be a time savers so you are not wasting time bouncing around your spreadsheet trying to remember your column headers or row headers.

Question Three: How do I create a workbook from scratch?

Creating a workbook from scratch can be somewhat intimidating if you have limited Excel skills. The easiest way around this hurdle is to use the free Excel templates that are offered by Microsoft. There are literally hundreds of free templates available for download!

Downloading the templates can be done from Excel, going to Microsoft website, or using the many online resources that offer free Excel template for your use. Once you see the variety of templates that are available, you can select the one that best fits your needs. With a few changes, you can make these template look and feel the way you want!

Implementing these three efficiency features can save you time and effort when using Excel. Using Excel 2003 Tutorials can help you learn Excel at your pace so learning Excel doesn’t have to be struggle. Just use the features that work best for you!