Your First Spreadsheet

Let's build a simple Monthly Budget. It's the best way to learn!

Step 1: Create a New Workbook

1. Open Excel.
2. Click Blank Workbook.

Step 2: Enter Your Data

Click on a cell and type. Use Tab to move right, Enter to move down.

Type this into your sheet:

Step 3: Do the Math (Formulas)

Let's calculate the difference (Budget - Actual).

1. Click cell D2.
2. Type: =B2-C2
3. Press Enter.
4. Magic Trick: Click D2 again. See the tiny square at the bottom-right? Drag it down to D5. Excel copies the formula for you!

Step 4: Make it Look Good

1. Select everything (A1:D5).
2. Add Borders: Click the Borders icon (looks like a window) in the Home tab.
3. Format Money: Select the numbers, then click the $ sign.
4. Headers: Select the top row (Row 1), make it Bold and add a Fill Color.

Step 5: Save It

• Press Ctrl + S (Windows) or Cmd + S (Mac).
• Name it "My Budget".

Congratulations! You just became an Excel user. 🚀

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: Formula error: #DIV/0!

Fix: You're dividing by zero. Check your formula.

Problem: Formula error: #NAME?

Fix: Typo in function name. Check spelling (SUM not SU)

Problem: Changes not saved

Fix: Press Ctrl + S frequently or enable AutoSave

Key Points

✅ Always start formulas with = sign

✅ Use fill handle to copy formulas quickly

✅ Format numbers as currency for money

✅ Conditional formatting highlights important data automatically

✅ Save your work frequently (Ctrl + S)

✅ Column auto-fit: double-click column border

Reference Materials

📚 Helpful Resources:

• Enter Data Manually - Microsoft Support
• Basic Excel Formulas - Exceljet
• Conditional Formatting Guide
• Excel Budget Templates - Free Download
• Format Cells in Excel - Tutorial

What's Next?

Congratulations! You've created your first Excel spreadsheet. Next, let's learn essential Excel shortcuts to work faster!