Introduction to Microsoft Excel

Which of the following is the primary function of Microsoft Excel?

• Word processing

• Spreadsheet management

• Presentation creation

• Database management

Answer explanation

The primary function of Microsoft Excel is spreadsheet management, allowing users to organize, analyze, and manipulate data in tabular form, unlike word processing or presentation creation.

In Excel, what is a cell?

• A type of chart

• A single data point

• The intersection of a row and a column

• An entire row

Answer explanation

A cell in Excel is defined as the intersection of a row and a column, where data is entered. This distinguishes it from other options like charts or entire rows, making it the correct choice.

How do you reference the cell located in the third column and second row?

• B3

• C2

• 2C

• 3B

Answer explanation

In spreadsheet notation, columns are labeled with letters and rows with numbers. The third column is 'C' and the second row is '2', so the correct reference for the cell located in the third column and second row is C2.

What is the default file extension for an Excel workbook?

• .docx

• .xlsx

• .pptx

• .pdf

Answer explanation

The default file extension for an Excel workbook is .xlsx. This format was introduced in Excel 2007 and is used for saving spreadsheets, while .docx is for Word documents, .pptx for PowerPoint, and .pdf for portable documents.

Which tab on the Ribbon would you use to change the font size?

• Insert

• Home

• Data

• Review

Answer explanation

The 'Home' tab on the Ribbon contains the font settings, including font size. This is where you can easily adjust the text appearance, making it the correct choice for changing font size.

What feature allows you to quickly fill cells with repetitive or sequential data?

• AutoComplete

• AutoSum

• AutoFill

• AutoCorrect

Answer explanation

The correct choice is AutoFill, which allows users to quickly fill cells with repetitive or sequential data by dragging the fill handle. This feature is essential for efficiently populating data in spreadsheets.

What is the function of the Formula Bar in Excel?

• To display the name of the workbook

• To enter or edit data and formulas

• To navigate between worksheets

• To format cell contents

Answer explanation

The Formula Bar in Excel is primarily used to enter or edit data and formulas in the selected cell. It allows users to see and modify the content directly, making it essential for data manipulation.

Which of the following best describes a workbook?

• A single cell

• A collection of worksheets

• A table of data

• A chart

Answer explanation

A workbook is best described as a collection of worksheets, which are individual pages within the workbook where data can be organized and analyzed. The other options do not accurately represent a workbook.

How can you quickly sum a column of numbers?

• Use the "SUM" function in the Formula Bar

• Click "Insert" on the Ribbon

• Use the "AutoSum" button

• Manually add each number

Answer explanation

The "AutoSum" button allows you to quickly sum a column of numbers with a single click, making it the most efficient choice compared to manually adding each number or using other methods.

What is the purpose of the "Freeze Panes" feature?

• To protect cells from being edited

• To keep specific rows or columns visible while scrolling

• To prevent data from being sorted

• To create a new worksheet

Answer explanation

The "Freeze Panes" feature allows users to keep specific rows or columns visible while scrolling through a worksheet, making it easier to view and compare data without losing sight of important headers.