Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate

  As a quick refresher, a function is a preset command that automatically performs a specific process or task using the data in a spreadsheet. Functions give data analysts the ability to do calculations, which can be anything from simple arithmetic to complex equations. Use this reading to help you keep track of some of the most useful options. Functions The basics Just like formulas, start all of your functions with an equal sign (=SUM). The equal sign tells the spreadsheet that what follows is part of a function, not just a word or number in a cell.  After you type the equal sign, most spreadsheet applications will display an autocomplete menu that lists valid functions, names, and text strings. This is a great way to create and edit functions while avoiding typing and syntax errors. A fun way to learn new functions is by simply typing an equal sign and a single letter of the alphabet. Choose one of the options that pops up and learn what that function does. Difference betwe...

  When you are new to data analytics—and sometimes even when you aren't—spreadsheet struggles are real. It never feels good when you type in what you are sure is a perfect formula or function, only to get an error message. Understanding errors and how to fix them is a big part of keeping your data clean, so it’s important to know how to deal with issues as they come up, and more importantly, not to get discouraged. Remember, even the most advanced spreadsheet users come across problems from time to time. In this reading, you will learn about common errors and how to fix them.  But first, here are a few best practices and helpful tips. These strategies will help you avoid spreadsheet errors to begin with, making your life in analytics a whole lot less stressful: Filter data to make your spreadsheet less complex and busy. Use and freeze headers so you know what is in each column, even when scrolling. When multiplying numbers, use an asterisk (*) not an X. Start every formula and...

  You have been learning a lot about spreadsheets and all kinds of time-saving calculations and organizational features they offer. One of the most valuable spreadsheet features is a formula . As a quick reminder, a formula is a set of instructions that does a specific calculation using the data in a spreadsheet. Formulas make it easy for data analysts to do powerful calculations automatically, which helps them analyze data more effectively. Below is a  quick-reference guide to help you get the most out of formulas. Formulas The basics When you write a formula in math, it generally ends with an equal sign (2 + 3 = ?). But with formulas, they always start with one instead (=A2+A3). The equal sign tells the spreadsheet that what follows is part of a formula, not just a word or number in a cell.  After you type the equal sign, most spreadsheet applications will display an autocomplete menu that lists valid formulas, names, and text strings. This is a great way to create...