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Microsoft Excel What is it, what is it for and what alternatives are there?

It usually happens, especially with program packages, which we have software to which we do not pay more attention. Especially if it's one that does not match our activity. But this implies that we are wasting a tool that we might need and that we don't realize that we already have it.

In the case of people who are dedicated to design, the arts, or even writing, many are unaware of Excel functions. Which are usually very useful In different aspects.

If you are one of them, or simply want to know what this program is about and not waste resources that you already have installed on your computerWe recommend the following post.

What is Microsoft Excel and what is this Office package program for?

Is about a program that is included in the Microsoft Office package since its first version. Although in its beginnings it was designed to meet the needs of administrative activities, functions have been added that extend its usefulness to organizational tasks, database, financial and many others. This program contains spreadsheets, which are used to perform mathematical or financial tasks.

Within each of them, it is possible to create custom tables that include calculations and functions through alphanumeric formulas. Among other utilities, they can be detached from the tables, different types of explanatory charts, which are updated according to the information contained in the boxes. But its functions don't stop there. If you want to know what other things can be done with this program, read on below.

What kind of documents can be created from Microsoft Excel?

What kind of documents can be created from Microsoft Excel?

Like the entire suite of Office, their programs have evolved over time. Thus they have more utilities and accessories than before. In this way it is possible to include all kinds of content in your documents. However, in essence they remain tools with some specificity.

Among the types of documents that we can do with Excel we find the following:

  • Comparative tables. It works the same way as in Microsoft Wordalthough with less limitations and more functions. If you are of school age, you can organize your schedules by subject with this program.
  • Data tables. Enter numerical or word information in a table, after that you can make graphs that represent these values. It is very simple.
  • Perform basic functions between boxes. Add, subtract, multiply and divide between cells is possible thanks to the formulas that you can place on the top bar. Doing it within the same box is even easier. You only have to use the numeric keyboard with the sign "=" before the operation.
  • Use the templates offered by Office or from the Internet or simply create yours to write invoices, remittances and all kinds of accounting documents.
  • Link cells to others within the same document, in this way you will work in a more dynamic way and the updates of the values ​​will be done automatically.
  • You can make a giant amount of different documents with the same program, To learn more about Microsoft Excel we recommend that you search our site for the courses we offer.

List of the best alternatives to Microsoft Excel that you can use

List of the best alternatives to Microsoft Excel that you can use

While Office It's one of the leaders in office programs, it's not the only one on the market. And since it is a payment tool, there are some developers who have taken advantage of it.

You can know the best alternatives to Microsoft Excel, below:

Google Docs

Specifically the spreadsheets. With this web application you can access a wealth of resources similar to Exce'sl. You just need have a Google account (Gmail). Some advantages over the software Office is that is totally online. Your files are stored in the cloud, so there is no need for a physical storage device. In addition, it allows simultaneously edit documents, making the work more collaborative. Above all, it is free.

Apache OpenOffice

It is a open source suite. Which is available in different languages ​​and is compatible with own Office extensions. Within the program package we find software for spreadsheets, copywriting and others similar to Microsoft's. Can be used in mode offline and it's free.

Download Apache OpenOffice Windows

Download Apache OpenOffice Linux

Download Apache OpenOffice MacOS

Hancom.com

If you are looking for something more exclusive, for less than 80 euros you can purchase this program. Which is possible access from any device with Internet connection.

IWorks numbers

An interesting alternative if you need a calculation program for your Mac. It is completely free and offers complex functions for data analysis and reporting. And like the hardware it is intended for, the elegance of its design makes it an option very pleasing to the eye. Also, you shouldn't worry if you have to send the file to a person with another operating system, since it is compatible with Microsoft Excel.

WPS Office

It is a android application. In which we can open, read, edit and share documents typical of an office. It is one of the most used by users who prefer to work from the mobile. It works very well as desktop software add-on.