Course description

Collecting data is just the first step — your real power begins when you know how to analyze it and turn it into smart decisions.

The Data Analysis with Excel course offers a comprehensive training path to master data analysis using Excel the most widely used tool across organizations and companies. Through this course, you will gain practical skills in organizing, cleaning, and analyzing data using Excel’s advanced features. You’ll also learn how to design insightful reports and visualizations that support data-driven decision-making.

This course is designed in a simplified, hands-on approach, featuring real-world exercises and projects that enhance your understanding and help you apply what you learn in practical scenarios. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone aiming to upgrade their skills, this course is a practical step forward and a powerful starting point in your data analysis journey.

General Objectives of the Course 

• Mastering data analysis using Excel

• Cleaning and preparing data using Power Query

• Creating clear and compelling data visualizations

• Using advanced Excel functions such as VLOOKUP, XLOOKUP, and Pivot Tables

• Designing interactive reports that support decision-making

Who Can Benefit from the Course ?

This course is designed to serve a wide range of individuals interested in data analysis from various backgrounds and fields  whether they are just starting out or looking to enhance their analytical skills and apply them effectively in their careers.

• Individuals seeking to enter the field of data analysis

• Students and graduates of technical or business-related majors

• Professionals working in administrative or technical sectors

• Entrepreneurs and startup founders

• Anyone aiming to understand and interpret data effectively

 Main Course Modules 

To help you gain the most value from this comprehensive course, here’s an overview of the key modules and topics covered:

1. Importing Data from Excel and External Sources

• Types of sources: CSV files, TXT files, databases (such as SQL Server, Access), and web pages using Power Query

• Import methods: Using Excel’s built-in tools such as Power Query and the Data tab

• Data transformation during import: Adjusting data types, cleaning fields, and combining multiple files

• Setting up auto-refresh: Linking data to its source to ensure automatic updates

2. Using Advanced Functions: VLOOKUP, XLOOKUP, INDEX & MATCH

• Detailed explanation and use cases:

• VLOOKUP: Searching for a value vertically in a table

• XLOOKUP: A modern, flexible alternative to VLOOKUP and HLOOKUP

• INDEX: Returning a value from a table based on row and column numbers

• MATCH: Finding the position of an item within a row or column

• Combining functions for powerful formulas: e.g., using INDEX + MATCH together

• Handling errors: Using IFERROR to manage missing or incorrect values

3. Creating Reports Using Pivot Tables and Dynamic Analysis

• Building Pivot Tables from different data sources

• Report design: Selecting fields, grouping, filtering, and classifying data

• Enhancing interactivity: Using Slicers and Timelines

• Custom calculations: Creating Calculated Fields and custom metrics

• Advanced data exploration: Identifying trends, patterns, and distributions

4. Designing Data Visualizations and Selecting the Right Chart Type

• Chart types: Column, line, pie, area, and advanced charts like stacked or combo charts

• Choosing the right chart for the data: When to use column vs. pie or line charts

• Chart customization: Modifying colors, axes, titles, and adding data labels

• Interactive charts: Using Pivot Charts and linking them to Pivot Tables

• Embedding charts in reports: To enhance clarity and communication

5. Using Tools like What-If Analysis, Goal Seek, and Solver

• What-If Analysis: Understanding how changes in variables affect outcomes

• Goal Seek: Finding input values to reach a specific goal

• Scenario Manager: Creating and comparing multiple scenarios

• Solver Add-in: Solving optimization problems and allocating resources under constraints

• Real-life examples: Budget planning, cost analysis, and sensitivity analysi

6. Automating Tasks with Macros in Excel

• Introduction to Macros: What they are and how they streamline repetitive tasks

• Recording Macros: Capturing steps for automation

• Editing code using VBA: Basics of customizing macros through simple programming

• Practical applications: Automating data cleaning, report generation, and data updates

• Running Macros via buttons or shortcuts: Simplifying usage

• Security concerns: Managing macro settings safely

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Do I need any prior experience before enrolling in this course?
A: No, the course starts from the basics and gradually moves to more advanced skills. A basic understanding of computers and some familiarity with technical English is recommended.

Q: Is the content theoretical or practical?
A: It is primarily hands-on, with plenty of real-world exercises and practical projects.

Q: Is this course only for professionals, or can students join too?
A: The course is suitable for everyone — whether you’re a student, a working professional, or someone looking to develop your skills. And yes, once you enroll, you’ll have lifetime access to the course.

Key Technical Terms Related to the Data Analysis with Excel Course

My Communication Academy offers you a carefully selected list of essential technical terms you’ll encounter throughout the course. These terms are designed to help you better understand the content and interact more deeply with the concepts presented.

• Dataset

• Data Cleaning

• Power Query

• Pivot Table

• VLOOKUP / XLOOKUP

• Data Visualization

• Dashboard

• Filter & Sort

• Conditional Formatting

• Chart Type

What will i learn?

• Master data analysis in Excel with a high level of proficiency
• Organize and clean data using tools like Power Query Import data from various sources such as CSV files, databases, and the web
• Apply advanced Excel functions including: VLOOKUP XLOOKUP Pivot Tables
• Create clear and engaging data visualizations to communicate information effectively
• Analyze trends and patterns to guide strategic decisions
• Design interactive reports that support decision-making
• Automate repetitive tasks using Excel Macros for greater efficiency
• Increase productivity by reducing errors and speeding up workflows

Frequently asked question