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PART 5
USING SPREADSHEET
SOFTWARE
Learning Objectives
After completing Part 5, you will
9 Comprehend how spreadsheets are used in
the business office, and their importance.
9 Be familiar with the process of creating
spreadsheets.
9 Enter data into a spreadsheet.
9 Create a Business Statement report from
spreadsheet data.
NOTE: Students must have access to Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet software.
Additionally, to complete the spreadsheet exercises, students must be proficient in creating a
basic spreadsheet or they may download the student spreadsheet template for each practice
job from www.mhhe.com/slater8e.
For many years people used calculators and adding machines to perform numerical
calculations, however, with recent innovations in computer technology and spreadsheet
software, these manual tools have become virtually obsolete. The ease with which
spreadsheet software can calculate and manipulate volumes of numerical data makes
managerial decision making more timely and effective.
For example, when using a balance sheet set up on a spreadsheet, if one number is changed,
all affected totals are automatically changed throughout the spreadsheet.
A spreadsheet contains horizontal rows and vertical columns. Columns are labeled with
letters; rows are numbered. The intersection of a row and a column is called a cell. Cell
locations are identified as “cell addresses”; a column letter and a row number identify the
corresponding cell address. Cells may contain labels (alphanumeric characters), numerical
values, or formulas. For example Cell A1 is labeled Temporary Employees, B1 is labeled
Permanent Employees, C1 is labeled Total Employees. Cell A2 and B2 have numerical;
values and cell C2 has a formula that adds Cell A2 and B2.
The exercises that follow allow you to practice using the computer number pad to enter data
with speed and accuracy. They also provide an opportunity to practice creating spreadsheets.
P e r c e n t o f M o n t h l y E x p e n s e
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