Features

I have bent Excel over backwards to do stuff it was not meant to do like track training metrics and use it as process bug-tracker (think programming bug tracking system except it’s for processes). These spreadsheets require many workarounds not found in the help file or on the Internet. It just takes a few keyboard banging sections and formula screw ups to make these workarounds work.

Excel also has a few glaring features that are missing and the workarounds are available on Microsoft. One such feature is the lack of totals on a stacked column chart. Excel adds the total for each item in the stacked column, but doesn’t add the value for the whole column.

PivotTables are useful, but when I need them, I have forgotten how to use them to their fullest. My mind goes blank when I face the PivotTable wizard. A whole chapter is devoted to its magic and scanning the hack titles helps you quickly decide what you need and go to work.

The hacks go from easy as pie to tough as nails. Did you know the comments boxes don’t have to be square? It’s a simple hack and the first cool thing I learn from Excel Hacks. The hacks covering XML and macros are for the advanced users, but intermediate users should be able to do them and hard working beginners can get there.

Excel isn’t just for accountants anymore and the book shows how to use it for other things. The book is worth the investment for anyone who uses Excel. Make it break a sweat with these hacks and have fun doing it.

VITAL STATISTICS:
TITLE: Excel Hacks: 100 Industrial-Strength Tips and Tools
AUTHOR: Raina Hawley and David Hawley
PUBLISHER: O’Reilly & Associates
PUBLICATION DATE: March 2004
ISBN: 059600625X
FORMAT: Paperback
PAGES: 304
PRICE: US$24.95