I have a set of evaluations to put into Excel. They include demographics, location data, 1-5 ratings on several metrics, comments on strengths and weaknesses of the workshop, and additional comments. I need to be able to sort and cross-reference all these fields. How can I do that?
You'll have to be more specific than giving a general outline of your overall objective.
However, to start: your data *MUST* be properly structured using a classic database layout, which means (at minimum):
1. Top row of the data table is a header row (can start the table on any row 0 but top row is a header)
2. Each header cell contains a field label (e.g. gender, age, state, rating, etc.) - generally descriptive of the underlying data in rows below
3. No blank rows or columns (blank cells = OK) - do not use blanks rows/columns to "space" the data - resize the row/column instead
4. No merged cells (ever!) - did I say no merged cells? Well, I meant NO MERGED CELLS!
See this page on Excel Best Practices for more info
Seeing as you are using XL2010, I suggest you make your data range into an Excel Table. Tables provide many benefits:
1. They are automatically treated a dynamic ranges - formulas and Pivot Table (with refresh) automtically recognize changes in the data
2. Formulas and formats are automatically carried forward as new rows of data are added.
3. You can use structured refences in formula, making the formula easy to understand
As for cross referencing and analysis, consider using a Pivot Table.
Develop the workbook then post back with *SPECIFIC* questions.
Palmetto
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