Day 1: Preparing Messy Excel Data

Excel Data Quality Diagnosis

• Profile blanks duplicates and errors
• Identify inconsistent labels and formats
• Check dates numbers and text types
• Locate columns requiring business rules

Cleaning Rules and Standardization

• Standardize categories before analysis
• Normalize dates and numeric formats
• Trim irrelevant text and spaces
• Document every material cleaning rule

Missing Data and Exception Handling

• Distinguish missing from zero values
• Define approved treatment by field
• Flag unresolved data exceptions
• Avoid invented replacement values

Day 2: Using AI for Analysis and Formulas

Formula Generation and Explanation

• Describe calculation before requesting formula
• Review cell references and ranges
• Explain logic in plain language
• Test formulas on sample rows

AI-Assisted Exploratory Analysis

• Ask focused questions about patterns
• Compare categories and time periods
• Identify values needing investigation
• Generate hypotheses not final conclusions

Pivot and Summary Design

• Choose dimensions matching business questions
• Summarize values using suitable measures
• Avoid misleading aggregation across categories
• Label summaries for decision users

Day 3: Validating and Presenting Excel Insights

Excel Analysis Verification

• Reconcile totals to source data
• Spot-check formulas and filters
• Confirm no rows were omitted
• Review outliers before exclusion

Chart Selection and Insight Display

• Match chart type to comparison
• Use consistent scales and labels
• Remove decorative nonessential elements
• Highlight evidence not assumptions

Excel Insight Pack

• Combine clean data and calculations
• Present verified analytical findings
• Document assumptions and exceptions
• Prepare workbook for controlled reuse

• Case analysis applying Excel Data Quality Diagnosis to realistic work
• Hands-on workshop developing Formula Generation and Explanation with evidence
• Peer review challenging Chart Selection and Insight against clear criteria
• Final lab producing Excel Insight Pack for workplace use