Chandoo.org Podcast - Become Awesome in Data Analytics

**CP05: Interview with MrExcel – Bill Jelen (on his incredible work ethic)** Dec 07, 2023

Bill Jelen is one of my most favorite people on earth. That is why I wanted to have him as my first guest when I restarted the podcast. Even though I recorded this few weeks ago, only now I got around to publishing it. Please enjoy the conversation with Bill.

Listen to this episode

Resources for this podcast episode

More about Bill:

MrExcel.com (Bill’s website)

Bill Jelen on YouTube

Excel eSports

The post CP05: Interview with MrExcel – Bill Jelen (on his incredible work ethic) appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

**SQL vs. Power Query – The Ultimate Comparison** Oct 13, 2023
On the left side, we have a veteran warrior with 37 years of data battle scars and redundant six pack. They call him **SQL**.

On the right side, there is a young challenger with transformative powers and “never say undo” attitude. He goes by the moniker **Power Query.**

**Who is going to win this battle?!?**

I have been using SQL for 25 years and Power Query since it came out in early 2012. And in this article, let me share my views on how SQL compares with Power Query. If you prefer to listen, check out the podcast episode – SQL vs. Power Query.

Listen: SQL vs. Power Query Podcast Episode

SQL vs. Power Query - The Comparison

SQL

Power Query

What can you do?

All CRUD operations (Create, Read, Update, Delete)

Only Read the data

What kind of data?

Usually single source from a database or warehouse
(ex: SQL Server)

Can access data from anywhere and combine data from multiple sources too.

How do you use it?

You need to “WRITE” queries to use SQL.

You “BUILD” Power Queries using the UI buttons and menu options.

Where can you use it?

Works almost universally. You can use SQL with most database systems and programming languages.

Only with Microsoft stack of products, primarily with Power BI, Excel and Fabric.

Who can use it?

By default, you need permissions / special software to use SQL.

Almost anyone can use Power Query as it comes packaged with Excel and Power BI.

How fast is it?

Built for performance and scalability. You can use SQL to access data quite efficiently.

Can become slow and tedious as your data grows.

Resources for Learning SQL

SQL Basics

50 SQL examples for Excel folks

Resources for Learning Power Query

What is Power Query and how to use it?

Learn Power Query in 15 minutes

My Power Query Essentials Course

What do you think?

Have you used both or either of these technologies? What do you think? Leave a comment with your thoughts.

The post SQL vs. Power Query – The Ultimate Comparison appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Listen to the Podcast — **SQL vs. Power Query – The Ultimate Comparison** Oct 13, 2023
On the left side, we have a veteran warrior with 37 years of data battle scars and redundant six pack. They call him **SQL**.

On the right side, there is a young challenger with transformative powers and “never say undo” attitude. He goes by the moniker **Power Query.**

**Who is going to win this battle?!?**

I have been using SQL for 25 years and Power Query since it came out in early 2012. And in this article, let me share my views on how SQL compares with Power Query. If you prefer to listen, check out the podcast episode – SQL vs. Power Query.

Listen: SQL vs. Power Query Podcast Episode

SQL vs. Power Query - The Comparison

SQL

Power Query

What can you do?

All CRUD operations (Create, Read, Update, Delete)

Only Read the data

What kind of data?

Usually single source from a database or warehouse
(ex: SQL Server)

Can access data from anywhere and combine data from multiple sources too.

How do you use it?

You need to “WRITE” queries to use SQL.

You “BUILD” Power Queries using the UI buttons and menu options.

Where can you use it?

Works almost universally. You can use SQL with most database systems and programming languages.

Only with Microsoft stack of products, primarily with Power BI, Excel and Fabric.

Who can use it?

By default, you need permissions / special software to use SQL.

Almost anyone can use Power Query as it comes packaged with Excel and Power BI.

How fast is it?

Built for performance and scalability. You can use SQL to access data quite efficiently.

Can become slow and tedious as your data grows.

Resources for Learning SQL

SQL Basics

50 SQL examples for Excel folks

Resources for Learning Power Query

What is Power Query and how to use it?

Learn Power Query in 15 minutes

My Power Query Essentials Course

What do you think?

Have you used both or either of these technologies? What do you think? Leave a comment with your thoughts.

The post SQL vs. Power Query – The Ultimate Comparison appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

The ugly truth about Power BI (Chandoo.org Podcast Episode) — **CP03: The Ugly Truth About Power BI (actually, 4 of them)** Aug 24, 2023

Power BI is one of the most prominent data analytics technology out there.

Power BI is also one of the most marketed and hyped technology out there.

Unfortunately, both of these statements are true.

In a world where ***data*** is the buzz word, Power BI (or other similar platforms like Tableau) appeal to CXOs as panacea for all their data troubles.

But, just as any technology, Power BI too has it’s own shortcomings. So in this episode of my podcast, let’s uncover 4 ugly truths of Power BI.

I want to preface this discussion with a huge note of thanks & gratitude for what Power BI offers. It is a *beautiful technology* with a few patches of ugliness.

Episode outline:

ONE: Power BI is not one technology, even though it is marketed as one.

TWO: Power BI changes *frustratingly often*. This makes it a hard technology to learn and use.

THREE: Power BI can get prohibitively expensive *as your organization & data needs evolve.*

FOUR: Power BI visuals / outputs are unimpressive.

Listen to this episode

Subscribe to the Show

Resources for this podcast episode

Learn more about Power BI:

The truth about Power BI and how to learn it properly (video)

Free vs. Pro vs. Premium Power BI – which one you should choose? (video)

Introduction to Power BI and full tutorial (article)

When & How to use various Power BI charts (guide)

**Power BI Beginner to PRO – Full Course** (paid class)

The post CP03: The Ugly Truth About Power BI (actually, 4 of them) appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

6 tips to help you get a $100k+ data job — **CP02: Six Tips to get a Six Figure ($100,000+) Data Job** Jul 27, 2023

So you want a 6 figure data job? In this podcast episode, I am going to share 6 strategies and tactics to land a $100k+ data job.

Episode outline:

My experience of working in a a 6 figure ($100k+) data job

6 strategies

Build wide data skill base

Cultivate deep technical skills in 1-2 areas

Develop business & functional knowledge

Cultivate interpersonal skills & present yourself better

Strong Interviewing skills

Focus on L

Listen to this episode

Subscribe to the Show

Resources for this podcast episode

In the podcast, I talked about creating a *digital wardrobe.* My recommended webcam, mic & lights are below:

**Recommended Webcams:**

Premium webcam: Elgato Facecam. I have been using Elgato Facecam for the last few months and just love it. It produces crisp, HD quality images & videos with almost no effort. Get it from Amazon.

Budget webcam: If you want a good quality webcam that produces decent video and good light capture, try Logitech c920. This was my primary webcam for more than 4 years and never disappointed me. Get it from Amazon.

**Recommended Mics:**

Premium mic: If your job involves a lot of talking, I suggest getting a good mic to enhance your voice quality. I use Blue Yeti Mics for my videos and livestreams and just LOVE them. Get it from Amazon.

Budget mic: I use the Plantronics Blackwire USB headset on the go and love the voice clarity it produces. Get it from Amazon.

**Recommended Lighting:**

The best lighting is natural light. So position your seat opposite to a window so that your face is getting natural light at angle. Try using sheer curtains to diffuse the strong direct sunlight.

Alternatively get a ring light if you work from a dark room or away from windows. I suggest this one on Amazon.

The post CP02: Six Tips to get a Six Figure ($100,000+) Data Job appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Good webcams can enhance your meeting presense. — **CP02: Six Tips to get a Six Figure ($100,000+) Data Job** Jul 27, 2023

So you want a 6 figure data job? In this podcast episode, I am going to share 6 strategies and tactics to land a $100k+ data job.

Episode outline:

My experience of working in a a 6 figure ($100k+) data job

6 strategies

Build wide data skill base

Cultivate deep technical skills in 1-2 areas

Develop business & functional knowledge

Cultivate interpersonal skills & present yourself better

Strong Interviewing skills

Focus on L

Listen to this episode

Subscribe to the Show

Resources for this podcast episode

In the podcast, I talked about creating a *digital wardrobe.* My recommended webcam, mic & lights are below:

**Recommended Webcams:**

Premium webcam: Elgato Facecam. I have been using Elgato Facecam for the last few months and just love it. It produces crisp, HD quality images & videos with almost no effort. Get it from Amazon.

Budget webcam: If you want a good quality webcam that produces decent video and good light capture, try Logitech c920. This was my primary webcam for more than 4 years and never disappointed me. Get it from Amazon.

**Recommended Mics:**

Premium mic: If your job involves a lot of talking, I suggest getting a good mic to enhance your voice quality. I use Blue Yeti Mics for my videos and livestreams and just LOVE them. Get it from Amazon.

Budget mic: I use the Plantronics Blackwire USB headset on the go and love the voice clarity it produces. Get it from Amazon.

**Recommended Lighting:**

The best lighting is natural light. So position your seat opposite to a window so that your face is getting natural light at angle. Try using sheer curtains to diffuse the strong direct sunlight.

Alternatively get a ring light if you work from a dark room or away from windows. I suggest this one on Amazon.

The post CP02: Six Tips to get a Six Figure ($100,000+) Data Job appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Top 5 Excel Skills you need to be a Successful Data Analyst in 2023 (podcast) Jul 13, 2023

Ladies & gentlemen… I have an exciting announcement. I am relaunching my podcast!!!

It only took me 7 years, but Chandoo.org podcast is now BACK! I am planning to make regular episodes on Excel, Power BI, SQL & Data Analytics.

Why I am starting it again?

Over the last year, I have been thinking about about restarting the podcast. I listen to a lot of podcasts (Tim Ferris show, All-in, Tropical MBA, Office Ladies, YouTube Creators Hub to name a few). They educate, entertain and inspire me. I want to pass along some of those benefits to you. So here we go (again).

In this episode…

In the 1st episode of Season 2 of Chandoo.org podcast I talk about, Top 5 Excel Skills you need to be a Successful Data Analyst in 2023

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Welcome message
Top 5 (Advanced) Excel Skills
- Tables
- Power Query
- Dynamic Arrays & Spill Ranges
- Pivot Tables & Data Model
- Charting & Story-telling

Listen to this session

Subscribe to the Show

Resources for this podcast

Comprehensive guides on,

The post Top 5 Excel Skills you need to be a Successful Data Analyst in 2023 (podcast) appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

session-056 — **CP056: So which formulas you should care to learn?** Oct 27, 2016
In the 56th episode of Chandoo.org podcast, let me answer the chicken and egg question of Excel users. **How many formulas should you care to learn?**

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Two personal updates

3 legs of formula writing

Function knowledge

Operators

Referencing

6 categories of must-know functions

Basic math

Conditions

Lookups

Text

Date & time

Work specific

Closing remarks & resources for you

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for learning Formulas

**Podcast episodes on formulas**

All about Excel $@#%%#^^

Mastering aweSUM() formulas of Excel

Writing business logic in Excel formulas

VTALKUP – learn all about VLOOKUP function

VLOOKUP FAQs

**Articles to learn important formulas**

Top 10 formulas for aspiring analysts

Beyond IF & SUM, 15 formulas for everyone

Support Chandoo.org podcast – Give a little thru Patreon

I am happy to announce that I have a Patreon page now. If you love my podcast, head to **my Patreon page** to pledge a little to Chandoo.org. Thanks for your generosity and love.

The post CP056: So which formulas you should care to learn? appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

session-055 — **CP055: “Yes, I am back” edition (and a bonus Excel tip)** Oct 13, 2016
Ladies & gentlemen, its time we revived the much loved Chandoo.org podcast. In the 55th episode, I do a lousy imitation of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s famous “I will be back” and tell you why there was such a long gap between episodes, my plans for reviving our podcast and more.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Why there was such a long gap between last and this episode

What next?

How to extract every 6th item from a list?

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for this podcast

Introduction to OFFSET function

Introduction to INDEX function

Staying away volatile functions

Average of every nth value

Filter odd or even rows only

Love my podcast? What topics you want to hear in it?

Thanks for all your generous support and love so far. I will be broadcasting new episodes twice a month from now. If you want to hear about a particular topic, share your suggestions in the comments area or email me at chandoo.d@gmail.com

Press the magic link and get podcasts right in to your earbuds

Our podcast is a great place to learn Excel on the go. There are tons of topics and back episodes to keep you busy for next marathon or month of commute. **Check out our back catalog** or subscribe today.

iTunes / iPhone

Android

Computer / Browser

The post CP055: “Yes, I am back” edition (and a bonus Excel tip) appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

session-054 — **CP054: Top 10 Pivot Table Tricks for YOU** Mar 31, 2016
In the 54th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s make you awesome in Pivot Tables.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Quick updates

Top 10 pivot table tricks

Adding same value field twice

Tabular layouts

GETPIVOTDATA & 2 bonus tricks

Relationships & data model

One slicer to rule them all

Show only top x values

Relative performance

Show unique count

Spruce up with conditional formats

Not so ugly pivot charts

Resources & Show notes for you

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for this podcast

**Comprehensive guides on,**

Excel Pivot Tables intro – Podcast

Excel Pivot Tables *an introduction*

Excel Slicers *what are they, how to use and advanced tips*

GETPIVOTDATA *examples & usage*

Relationships & Data model *example & downloadable workbook*

Power Pivot *introduction and overview*

**Pivot Table Tips & Tricks**

Use report filters with VBA

Structured references for Pivot Tables

Group data in Pivot Tables

Matching transactions using Pivot Tables

Highlight quarters / weekends using styles in Pivot Reports

What are your favorite Pivot Table tricks?

Now its your turn. Go ahead and share your favorite pivot table tricks in the comments box.

The post CP054: Top 10 Pivot Table Tricks for YOU appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

**CP054: Top 10 Pivot Table Tricks for YOU** Mar 31, 2016
In the 54th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s make you awesome in Pivot Tables.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Quick updates

Top 10 pivot table tricks

Adding same value field twice

Tabular layouts

GETPIVOTDATA & 2 bonus tricks

Relationships & data model

One slicer to rule them all

Show only top x values

Relative performance

Show unique count

Spruce up with conditional formats

Not so ugly pivot charts

Resources & Show notes for you

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for this podcast

**Comprehensive guides on,**

Excel Pivot Tables intro – Podcast

Excel Pivot Tables *an introduction*

Excel Slicers *what are they, how to use and advanced tips*

GETPIVOTDATA *examples & usage*

Relationships & Data model *example & downloadable workbook*

Power Pivot *introduction and overview*

**Pivot Table Tips & Tricks**

Use report filters with VBA

Structured references for Pivot Tables

Group data in Pivot Tables

Matching transactions using Pivot Tables

Highlight quarters / weekends using styles in Pivot Reports

What are your favorite Pivot Table tricks?

Now its your turn. Go ahead and share your favorite pivot table tricks in the comments box.

The post CP054: Top 10 Pivot Table Tricks for YOU appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

session-053 — **CP053: Excel Data Validation for Dummies** Mar 10, 2016
In the 53rd session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s talk about data validation.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

What is data validation

How Excel DV compares with database & software DV?

Types of data validation rules

List & custom rules explained

Input & error messages

Alternatives to data validation

Enhancing data validation

Removing data validation rules

Homework problem for you

Resources & show notes

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for this podcast

**Data validation introduction & examples:**

Excel basics: How to add drop down box data validation rules?

Either-or condition as validation rule

Making data validations dynamic

VLOOKUP + Data validation = magic

Copy data validations using Paste Special, Remove them with Paste Special

**Advanced validation examples:**

Advanced data validation techniques (custom rules)

Unsorted, duplicate column as source

Mix conditional formatting with DV for awesome results

**Data validation in play – case studies:**

Invoice template using data validation

To do list with data validation

**Additional resources:**

Using form controls in Excel

Introduction to slicers

Data validation home work – your answer

Did you get the answer for homework? Please post your answers / explanations in the comments section.

The post CP053: Excel Data Validation for Dummies appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Dynamic data validations - example — **CP053: Excel Data Validation for Dummies** Mar 10, 2016
In the 53rd session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s talk about data validation.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

What is data validation

How Excel DV compares with database & software DV?

Types of data validation rules

List & custom rules explained

Input & error messages

Alternatives to data validation

Enhancing data validation

Removing data validation rules

Homework problem for you

Resources & show notes

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for this podcast

**Data validation introduction & examples:**

Excel basics: How to add drop down box data validation rules?

Either-or condition as validation rule

Making data validations dynamic

VLOOKUP + Data validation = magic

Copy data validations using Paste Special, Remove them with Paste Special

**Advanced validation examples:**

Advanced data validation techniques (custom rules)

Unsorted, duplicate column as source

Mix conditional formatting with DV for awesome results

**Data validation in play – case studies:**

Invoice template using data validation

To do list with data validation

**Additional resources:**

Using form controls in Excel

Introduction to slicers

Data validation home work – your answer

Did you get the answer for homework? Please post your answers / explanations in the comments section.

The post CP053: Excel Data Validation for Dummies appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

session-052 - Book Review - M is for Data Monkey by Ken Puls & Miguel Escoabr — **CP052: Book Review – M is for Data Monkey by Ken & Miguel** Feb 11, 2016
In the 52nd session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s discuss **monkeys**, Ok, I am kidding. We are going to **talk about M is for Data Monkey book.**

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Updates: Why so much gap between episodes?

Quick introduction to Power Query

Why you should get this book?

What is in this book?

A very cool example of the techniques you will learn

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Resources for this podcast

**M is for Data Monkey book**

**More information & tutorials on Power Query**

Introduction to Power Query – podcast

Unpivot data with Power Query [tutorial]

Import web data using Power Query

**More resources on Power Query**

PowerQuery.Training

Power Query posts from Chris Webb blog

**Courses to help you tackle data problems**

Power Query Online Training from Ken & Miguel

Big Data & Power Pivot training from Chandoo

What is your favorite Power Query book?

Have you read M is for data monkey? How do you like it? What other books on PQ do you read? Please share your opinions and suggestions in the comment box.

The post CP052: Book Review – M is for Data Monkey by Ken & Miguel appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

**CP052: Book Review – M is for Data Monkey by Ken & Miguel** Feb 11, 2016
In the 52nd session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s discuss **monkeys**, Ok, I am kidding. We are going to **talk about M is for Data Monkey book.**

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Updates: Why so much gap between episodes?

Quick introduction to Power Query

Why you should get this book?

What is in this book?

A very cool example of the techniques you will learn

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Resources for this podcast

**M is for Data Monkey book**

**More information & tutorials on Power Query**

Introduction to Power Query – podcast

Unpivot data with Power Query [tutorial]

Import web data using Power Query

**More resources on Power Query**

PowerQuery.Training

Power Query posts from Chris Webb blog

**Courses to help you tackle data problems**

Power Query Online Training from Ken & Miguel

Big Data & Power Pivot training from Chandoo

What is your favorite Power Query book?

Have you read M is for data monkey? How do you like it? What other books on PQ do you read? Please share your opinions and suggestions in the comment box.

The post CP052: Book Review – M is for Data Monkey by Ken & Miguel appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

VLOOKUP FAQs - Frequently asked questions about Excel VLOOKUP formula — **CP051: VLOOKUP FAQs – Most frequently asked questions about VLOOKUP – Answered** Jan 07, 2016
In the 51st session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s discuss **most frequently asked questions about VLOOKUP**.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

What is VLOOKUP?

What happens when VLOOKUP can’t find the value?

Should my list be sorted?

Is VLOOKUP slower than INDEX + MATCH?

What if my list has multiple matches?

How to fetch 2nd / 3rd matching item?

How to fetch all matching items?

How to fetch items matching multiple conditions?

How to speed up VLOOKUP?

Why doesn’t my VLOOKUP work?

What to do in case of errors?

Resources for you

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for this podcast

**4 Resources to learn lookup functions:**

Comprehensive guide to Excel lookup functions

VLOOKUP Cheatsheet

The VLOOKUP Quiz – test your knowledge

**Recommended book:** The VLOOKUP Book

**Other formulas and links mentioned in this podcast:**

INDEX formula – introduction, how to use it and why you should use it?

INDEX + MATCH formula combination

IFERROR Formula What is it, syntax, examples and uses

Looking up 2nd or 3rd matching value

Looking up based on multiple conditions

Ultimate VLOOKUP trick – Multi-condition lookup

**Speeding up VLOOKUPs:**

Using relationships feature in Excel 2013

Faster VLOOKUPs with sorting

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Want to know more about VLOOKUP? Please ask…

Still have questions about VLOOKUP? Please post them in the comments section. I will try to help you.

The post CP051: VLOOKUP FAQs – Most frequently asked questions about VLOOKUP – Answered appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Fifty Excel Tips to make you awesome - Chandoo.org podcast - Session 50 — **CP050: Fifty Excel Tips to make you awesome** Dec 03, 2015
This is going to be epic!!! In the 50th session of Chandoo.org podcast, **we have 50 Excel tips to make you awesome.**

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Thank you message

Fifty tips in 5 buckets

Shortcuts & Productivity

Formulas

Managing Data

Charts

Using Excel better

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for this podcast

**Keyboard shortcuts:**

Top 10 keyboard shortcuts for you – podcast 012

Comprehensive list of Excel keyboard shortcuts

25 Excel tricks to boost your productivity

**Formulas:**

Top 10 formulas for analysts & managers

Beyond SUM & IF – 15 formulas for you

Using wild cards in formulas (* &)

Formulas discussed in the podcast:

SUMIFS

SUBTOTAL

CHOOSE

AND OR – Logical formulas – podcast 028

IFERROR

**Managing Data:**

Excel Tables – an introduction

Using Text to Columns to convert dates

Flash fill – an introduction

Remove Duplicates – a quick tutorial

Go to special – what is so special about it?

Introduction to Data model & Relationships in Excel 2013

Power Query – an intro – podcast 040

**Charting:**

Data bars in Conditional formatting – a case study

Sparklines can go right to left

Hide ‘0’ in axis

Dynamic titles & labels in charts

**Using Excel:**

How to create custom ribbons in Excel – tutorial

Work with charts faster using selection pane

How to make gorgeous printable workbooks – podcast 025

Hide away unused rows & columns & 9 more tips to create awesome workbooks

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

What is your favorite tip?

Now it’s your turn. Which one of the fifty is your favorite? Or do you have something new altogether? Please share in the comments.

Spread the love – Review my podcast

If you enjoy Chandoo.org podcast, please take a minute and write a review on iTunes.

Also, do share this podcast on a colleague / friend. Make them awesome. Send them here: **http://chandoo.org/podcast**

The post CP050: Fifty Excel Tips to make you awesome appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Don't do data dumps - what are data dumps, why they are bad & how to avoid them - Chandoo.org podcast - Session 49 — **CP049: Don’t do data dumps!!!** Nov 19, 2015
In the 49th session of Chandoo.org podcast, **let’s talk about data dumps!**

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

What is a data dump

Examples of data dump

Why we dump

Ways to avoid data dumps

Go for information dumps

Sort the dump

Filter the dump

Give a table

Resources for you

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for making animated charts

**Making better charts in Excel:**

How to select right type of chart for your data

Why 3D pie charts are evil

**Charting podcasts:**

CP029 – Impress your boss with awesome charts – 6 step road map

CP032 – Rules for creating legendary column charts

CP038 – Data to Ink Ratio – What is it and how to optimize it

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Come across any data dumps? Share your story…

Now it’s your turn. Do you come across any data dumps in your line work? Share the story in the comments section.

Dump some love – Review my podcast

If you enjoy Chandoo.org podcast, please take a minute and write a review on iTunes.

Also, do dump this podcast on a colleague / friend. Make them awesome. Send them here: **http://chandoo.org/podcast**

The post CP049: Don’t do data dumps!!! appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

session-048 — **CP048: How to create animated charts in Excel?** Nov 12, 2015
In the 48th session of Chandoo.org podcast, **let’s make some animated charts!!!**

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Announcements

Why animate your charts?

Non-VBA methods to animate charts

Excel 2013’s built-in animation effects

Iterative formula approach

VBA based animation

Cartoon film analogy

Understanding the VBA part

Example animated chart – Sales of a new product

Resources and downloads for you

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources for making animated charts

**Example animated chart (shown in the title image):**

**Download example animated chart**. Play with it to learn more.

**More animated charts using Excel:**

Diwali flower pot cracker using animated charts

Another Diwali animated chart in Excel

Journey of Hurricane Sandy – Animated Chart

3D Dancing pendulums using Excel Charts & VBA

Designing a clock using Excel

**VBA Basics:**

Podcasts:

Introduction to VBA – CP022

Using FOR Loops in VBA – CP039

Articles:

Introduction to VBA – 5 part tutorial

**Non-VBA animation using formulas:**

Animation without macros [for fun]

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

How do you create animated charts in Excel?

Now it’s your turn. Do you make animated charts? Please share your techniques and samples in the comments section. Wow us.

The post CP048: How to create animated charts in Excel? appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Best excel tools and features for entrepreneurs - Chandoo.org podcast - session 47 — **CP047: Best Excel tools for Entrepreneurs** Oct 22, 2015
In the 47th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s see how Excel can make you an awesome entrepreneur.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Why Excel for entrepreneurs

Key areas of a business owner’s work

Projects & to dos

Finances

Customers & marketing

Planning & strategy

Processes & workflows

5 features of Excel that help

Tables

Financial formulas

Pivot tables

Forecasting techniques

VBA & formula driven workbooks

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Excel resources for entrepreneurs

If you are an entrepreneur or small business owner, check out these links and become awesome at your work.

**On projects & to dos:**

Introduction to Excel tables

Introduction to structured references and awesome ways to use tables

Project management using Excel – 6 part tutorial

**On finances:**

Basic financial formulas and analysis concepts in Excel – podcast

Case study: Cost vs benefit analysis using Excel

Financial modeling using Excel – 6 part tutorial

**On Marketing & customer data analysis:**

Introduction to pivot tables

Don’t be a pivot table virgin – podcast

More on Excel pivot tables

**On forecasting & planning:**

Introduction to trend analysis and forecasting using Excel – 3 part tutorial

Trend analysis using Excel – podcast

**On processes and workflows:**

Top 10 formulas for analysts & managers (entrepreneurs can use them too!)

Introduction to Excel VBA – podcast

**Scott Adam’s book** – How to fail at almost everything and still win big

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Are you an entrepreneur? Tell me how you use Excel…

Now it’s your turn. If you are an entrepreneur or small business owner, please tell me how you use Excel. Share your story in the comments section.

Subscribe to our podcast and get latest episodes automatically

Use below link to add our podcast to iTunes. For other options (Android, Windows phone or RSS) click the link below. Thank you.

Other options to subscribe

The post CP047: Best Excel tools for Entrepreneurs appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Gantt charts and project planning using MS Excel - Chandoo.org podcast - session 46 — **CP046: Gantt charts & project planning using Excel** Oct 08, 2015
In the 46th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s talk about gantt charts and project plans.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

A brief intro to Excel 2016

What is a Gantt chart?

How Gantt charts can help us?

How to create Gantt charts in Excel

Using bar charts with invisible series

Using conditional formatting and formulas

Using ready-made templates

Resources on Gantt charts & project planning

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources on Gantt Charts & Project Planning

**Tutorials on how to create Gantt charts in Excel**

Gantt charts & project plans in Excel – tutorial

Gantt charts using bar charts

Quick Gantt charts using conditional formatting

Gantt box chart – when there is uncertainty in project plans

**Project Management Resources & Articles**

Project status dashboard using Excel

Project portfolio dashboard using Excel

More project management tips, tutorials & resources for you

Excel for PMs – online course form Chandoo.org

**Ready to use Excel Project Management Templates**

**Ready to use Excel PM Template pack from Chandoo.org**

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Are you a project manager? Tell us how you use Excel…

I use Excel to manage all my projects – work related, vacation, product launches, product comparison etc. **If you are a project manager,** what do you use Excel for? Please share your experiences and ideas in the comments section.

Subscribe to our podcast and get latest episodes automatically

Use below link to add our podcast to iTunes. For other options (Android, Windows phone or RSS) click the link below. Thank you.

Other options to subscribe

The post CP046: Gantt charts & project planning using Excel appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Introduction to Monte Carlo simulations in Excel - Chandoo.org podcast - session 045 — **CP045: Introduction to Monte Carlo Simulations in Excel** Sep 24, 2015
In the 45th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s get in to Monte Carlo simulations.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Quick personal updates – 200km BRM and book delay

History of Monte Carlo simulations

Monte Carlo simulations – an example

How to do simulations in Excel

Formulas

VBA

Data Tables

Using data tables to run simulations – case study – estimating Pi value

Things to keep in mind when setting up your simulation models

Resources on Monte Carlo simulations in Excel

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources on Monte Carlo simulations

**Articles & tutorials on data tables & Monte Carlo simulations**

The best explanation about data tables & Monte Carlo simulations

Estimating Pi ? value by throwing frozen hot dogs on Excel charts

Simulating Monopoly board game to find best strategies

**Example workbook – Estimating Pi value with Monte Carlo simulations**

Click here to download the Pi Estimation Monte Carlo simulation workbook

**Courses:**

**50 ways to analyze your data** from Chandoo

**50 ways to analyze data** is a comprehensive online course to help you become a better analyst. In this course, you will learn how to create Monte Carlo simulations, optimization models, advanced analysis models & visualizations.

**Please click here to know more about 50 ways program**

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Simulate stuff? Stimulate someone, share stories…

Do you simulate stuff at your work (or personal life)? If so, please share your experience with rest of Chandoo.org audience. Post your simulation process, tips & ideas in the comments section.

The post CP045: Introduction to Monte Carlo Simulations in Excel appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

My first dashboard was a failure and what did I learn from it - making awesome dashboards - Chandoo.org podcast - session 44 — **CP044: My first dashboard was a failure!!!** Sep 10, 2015
In the 44th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s talk about failures.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Book announcement about Dashboards for Excel

Story of my first ever dashboard

Important lessons – Requirement Analysis for dashboards

Resources for creating awesome dashboards

Podcasts

Books

Courses

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources to make awesome dashboards

Podcast episodes:

Create awesome dashboards with this 10 step process

Make better charts by optimizing Data to Ink ratio

Rules for making legendary column charts

**Books on Dashboards:**

Information dashboard design by Stephen Few

Non-designers design book by Robin Williams

Dashboards for Excel by Jordan & Chandoo

**Courses:**

**Excel School + Dashboards – Online classes** from Chandoo

**Excel School**, is a comprehensive online course to help you become awesome in all aspects of data analysis, visualization, interactive workbooks, dashboard reporting and automation.

In this course, you will learn to:

**Analyze data** using simple & advanced formulas in Excel

**Structure & process large volumes of data quickly** using tables & pivot tables

**Present information** using charts, interactive & dynamic charts and complex charts

**Create dashboards** using 8 in-depth tutorials & case studies

**Make gorgeous workbooks** using conditional formatting, color & font choices and more

**Develop workbooks faster:** using my favorite tricks and productivity hacks

**Please click here to know more about Excel School and enroll**

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Help our community & me learn more by sharing your mistakes

It’s your turn. Share the mistakes you made during data analysis, dashboard preparation or automation projects. Let’s all learn from these and become stronger.

The post CP044: My first dashboard was a failure!!! appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

es-dashboards-program — **CP044: My first dashboard was a failure!!!** Sep 10, 2015
In the 44th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s talk about failures.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Book announcement about Dashboards for Excel

Story of my first ever dashboard

Important lessons – Requirement Analysis for dashboards

Resources for creating awesome dashboards

Podcasts

Books

Courses

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources to make awesome dashboards

Podcast episodes:

Create awesome dashboards with this 10 step process

Make better charts by optimizing Data to Ink ratio

Rules for making legendary column charts

**Books on Dashboards:**

Information dashboard design by Stephen Few

Non-designers design book by Robin Williams

Dashboards for Excel by Jordan & Chandoo

**Courses:**

**Excel School + Dashboards – Online classes** from Chandoo

**Excel School**, is a comprehensive online course to help you become awesome in all aspects of data analysis, visualization, interactive workbooks, dashboard reporting and automation.

In this course, you will learn to:

**Analyze data** using simple & advanced formulas in Excel

**Structure & process large volumes of data quickly** using tables & pivot tables

**Present information** using charts, interactive & dynamic charts and complex charts

**Create dashboards** using 8 in-depth tutorials & case studies

**Make gorgeous workbooks** using conditional formatting, color & font choices and more

**Develop workbooks faster:** using my favorite tricks and productivity hacks

**Please click here to know more about Excel School and enroll**

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Help our community & me learn more by sharing your mistakes

It’s your turn. Share the mistakes you made during data analysis, dashboard preparation or automation projects. Let’s all learn from these and become stronger.

The post CP044: My first dashboard was a failure!!! appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Top time saving features of Excel - Chandoo.org Podcast - Session 43 — **CP043: My favorite time saving features of Excel, Revealed.** Aug 27, 2015
In the 43rd session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s talk about top time saving features of Excel.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Quick announcement about Awesome August

My 9 favorite time saving features of Excel

Remove Duplicates

Tables

Pivot Tables

Auto fill

Format Painter

Find & Replace

VBA / Macro Recorder

Auto save

Auto complete / Intellisence

Recap & Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources to save time

Dealing with duplicates

Remove duplicates button – explained

Remove duplicate combinations

**Tables & Pivot Table concepts:**

Introduction to Excel Tables

Introduction to Excel Pivot Tables

Structural References & how to use them

**Auto fill & flash fill:**

Fill up patterns with Auto-fill

Flash fill in Excel – a quick intro

**Format Painter and how it can save time for you:**

Format faster with format painter & double click

Format all charts in same way using format painter

**Find & Replace:**

Use find / replace to change formats quickly

Change formulas with find / replace

**VBA & Macro Recorder**

Introduction to VBA & Macros

What is a macro and how to get started – podcast

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Which Excel feature is the most time saving one?

I’ve revealed my secrets. Now it’s your turn. Tell me your favorite time saving feature of Excel.

And if you have a few minutes *time*, Please write a review for Chandoo.org podcast on iTunes. **Please click here to do that** (see the instructions if you don’t know how to write a review on iTunes).

The post CP043: My favorite time saving features of Excel, Revealed. appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Introduction to financial analysis & modeling concepts - CP042 - Chandoo.org podcast — **CP042: Financial Analysis & Modeling concepts – 101** Aug 13, 2015
In the 42nd session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s talk about money. We are going to learn about various concepts that are vital for doing financial analysis and building models.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Quick announcement about Awesome August

5 key finance concepts

Time value of money

Compound interest

Risk free rate of return

Net Present Value – NPV

Internal Rate of Return – IRR

Case study – Uber vs. Your car

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Resources to learn about financial analysis & modeling

**Uber vs. Your car – Analysis model**

Please click here to download the Uber vs. Your car analysis workbook.

**Finance concepts:**

NPV – what is it and how to calculate it in Excel?

IRR – how to calculate it?

CAGR – how to calculate it?

Introduction to financial modeling using Excel – 6 part tutorial

**Case studies:**

Cost vs. benefit analysis – which bulbs to use?

Interactive mortgage calculator

How much money you need to retire?

**Advanced concepts:**

Project finance modeling in Excel – case study

Data tables & Montecarlo simulations in Excel – Gold mine case study

**Recommended courses:**

**Financial Modeling school from Chandoo.org** – this online course teaches you all the concepts necessary to build full-length valuation & analysis models using Excel

**50 Ways to analyze data from Chandoo.org** – this online course makes you awesome in all aspects of data analysis, reporting & visual analysis using Excel

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

According to you, What are key concepts for financial analysis?

I shared my opinion and explained 5 concepts in the podcast. Now its your turn.

**Tell me what are the key concepts to master** *if someone needs to learn about financial analysis & modeling?* Please share your thoughts and inputs in the comments section.

The post CP042: Financial Analysis & Modeling concepts – 101 appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

6 charts you should avoid - Chandoo.org podcast - session 41 — **CP041: 6 charts you’ll see in hell – v2.0** Aug 06, 2015
In the 41st session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s take a trip to data hell and meet 6 ugly, clumsy, confusing charts. I am revisiting a classic Chandoo.org article – 6 Charts you will see in hell.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Quick announcement about Awesome August

6 charts you should avoid

3D charts

Pie / donut charts with too many slices

Too much data

Over formatting

Complex charts

Charts that don’t tell a story

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Learn more about which charts to avoid, which ones to make

**On Pie charts:**

Here is an ugly, clumsy pie chart to prove the point. [ Source: Bill the Lizard ]

Should you use pie charts? – podcast session 004

Why 3D pie charts are evil

**On making charts when you have too much data:**

Panel charts (or small multiples) in Excel

Panel Chart case study – Survey results visualized

Sparklines

**On formatting:**

Avoid Gangnam styles

Impressing your boss with Excel charts – 6 step road map for you – podcast session 029

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Do you create any of these charts? Share your story

As a fresh analyst, I created all of these 6 charts. But I quickly realized that each time I made a 3D pie chart, I am selling a small piece of my soul to the devil. So I atoned my sins by scattering everywhere and visiting lots of bars.

**What about you?** Have you ever created any of these charts? What did your users say when they saw these charts? Share your story in the comments.

Note: This is a part of Awesome August Excel festival.

The post CP041: 6 charts you’ll see in hell – v2.0 appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

What people are saying about your pie charts — **CP041: 6 charts you’ll see in hell – v2.0** Aug 06, 2015
In the 41st session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s take a trip to data hell and meet 6 ugly, clumsy, confusing charts. I am revisiting a classic Chandoo.org article – 6 Charts you will see in hell.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Quick announcement about Awesome August

6 charts you should avoid

3D charts

Pie / donut charts with too many slices

Too much data

Over formatting

Complex charts

Charts that don’t tell a story

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Learn more about which charts to avoid, which ones to make

**On Pie charts:**

Here is an ugly, clumsy pie chart to prove the point. [ Source: Bill the Lizard ]

Should you use pie charts? – podcast session 004

Why 3D pie charts are evil

**On making charts when you have too much data:**

Panel charts (or small multiples) in Excel

Panel Chart case study – Survey results visualized

Sparklines

**On formatting:**

Avoid Gangnam styles

Impressing your boss with Excel charts – 6 step road map for you – podcast session 029

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Do you create any of these charts? Share your story

As a fresh analyst, I created all of these 6 charts. But I quickly realized that each time I made a 3D pie chart, I am selling a small piece of my soul to the devil. So I atoned my sins by scattering everywhere and visiting lots of bars.

**What about you?** Have you ever created any of these charts? What did your users say when they saw these charts? Share your story in the comments.

Note: This is a part of Awesome August Excel festival.

The post CP041: 6 charts you’ll see in hell – v2.0 appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Introduction to Power Query - What is it and how to get started? An interview with Miguel Escobar - Chandoo.org Podcast - CP040 — **CP040: Intro. to Power Query – What is it and how to get started – with Miguel Escobar** Jul 30, 2015
In the 40th session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s talk about Power Query. I have the pleasure and fortune to catch up with Miguel Escobar (who along with Ken Puls runs PowerQuery.Training website) and talk about this very exciting piece of technology and how it can make our life simpler.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Welcome

Miguel’s introduction, background and current projects

What is Power Query

How to install it

Sample use cases of Power Query

What is Power BI

Resources for learning Power Query – Books & Courses

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Learn more about Power Query

**Books:**

I recommend 2 books for learning more about Power Query.

Power Query for Power BI & Excel by Chris Webb

M is for Data Monkey – A guide to M language in Power Query by Ken Puls & Miguel Escobar (pre-order only, release in November 2015)

**Online classes:**

Ken & Miguel regularly run an online class teaching hands-on techniques, implementation guidelines and secrets about Power Query. I have signed up for their next class and eagerly looking forward to it. I recommend going for their class if you want to seriously improve your Power Query skills.

Special offer worth $59 for Chandoo.org listeners

As a podcast listener, here is a special offer for you from PowerQuery.Training.

Use the discount code **CHANDOO** when signing up for their upcoming live session and get 10% off on the course fees.

**Click here to signup for their upcoming class**.

Note: Ken & Miguel are good friends and partners of Chandoo.org. When you join this course from above link, I receive a small commission. I am recommending this course because I genuinely think their program is suitable & awesome for anyone needing Power Query instruction.

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Are you using Power Query? What has been your experience with it?

**I have been playing with Power Query for last 18 months.** I really like the technology and what it can do for us, analysts. I regularly use it to clean data, do quick transformations and set up models.

**What about you?** Have you been using Power Query? What is your experience like? Please share your success story in the comments.

The post CP040: Intro. to Power Query – What is it and how to get started – with Miguel Escobar appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Introduction to Excel VBA FOR Loops - What are they, how to use them - Chandoo.org Podcast - Session 039 — **CP039: May the FOR Loop be with you – Introduction to For Loops in Excel VBA** Jul 23, 2015
In the 39th session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s learn about FOR loops.
There is a special giveaway in this podcast. It is a workbook with several FOR loop VBA code examples. Listen to the episode for instructions.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Announcements

What is a loop – plain English & technical definitions

For Loop vs. other kind of loops (While & Until)

For Next loops

For Each loops

Nested For loops

Special tips on For loops

Performance issues & infinite loops

Conclusions & giveaway

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

Introduction to VBA

Introduction to Excel VBA – 5 part crash course

Introduction to VBA – what is it and how to get started – Podcast #22

**Using FOR Loops – Examples**

Looking up when data wont play nice – Using FOR Loops

Understanding variables, conditions & loops in VBA

Split an Excel file in to many using For Each loop

**Optimization & Performance of VBA code**

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Are FOR loops strong with your VBA code?

**I personally favor FOR loops over While loops.** I learned about loops in 1996 (in BASIC language).Any powerful application or program I have built ever since has its share of FOR loops. They are vital for doing awesome things with computers.

**What about you?** Do you use FOR loops often? When do you use them? What are your favorite implementations. Please share your tips & thoughts in the comments area.
**Remember:** Email me at chandoo.d@gmail.com once you finish the task mentioned in the podcast to get your FOR loops example workbook.
The post CP039: May the FOR Loop be with you – Introduction to For Loops in Excel VBA appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Data to Ink ratio - What is it, how to optimize it, techniques and discussion - Chandoo.org Podcast - CP038 — **CP038: Data to Ink Ratio – What is it, How to optimize it, Techniques & Discussion** Jul 09, 2015
In the 38th session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s optimize data to ink ratio of your charts.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Announcements

What is Data to Ink Ratio?

Obvious ways to optimize Data to Ink Ratio

More ways to optimize Data to Ink ratio

Highlighting what is important

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

Recommended Books for creating better charts:

**Information Dashboard Design** by Stephen Few

**Visual Display of Quantitative Information** by Edward Tufte

**Optimizing data to ink ratio – Charting case studies**

Closing gaps in gender equality chart

Why 3D pie charts are evil…

Visualizing world education rankings

**Techniques for highlighting what is important**

Display alerts in dashboards to grab user attention

Adding meaning titles & legends to charts

Never show simple numbers in your dashboards

**Invitation to “Becoming a better analyst” Webinar**

As mentioned in the podcast, I am running my first ever webinar on Wednesday, July 15th – 2015 (2PM EST). The topic is “How to become a BETTER analyst?”

Please click here to register for the webinar & become a better analyst.

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

How do you optimize Data to Ink Ratio?

**What about you?** Do you worry about data to ink ratio when making charts? How do you optimize it? Do you have a process for it? Please share your tips by posting a comment.

Subscribe to Chandoo.org Podcast

Other options to subscribe

The post CP038: Data to Ink Ratio – What is it, How to optimize it, Techniques & Discussion appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP037 - Error error on the wall, how do I fix you all? - Understanding & Fixing Excel Errors - Chandoo.org Podcast — **CP037: Error error on the wall, How do I fix you all? – Understanding & Fixing Excel Errors** Jun 25, 2015
In the 37th session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s debug ’em #VALUEs & #N/As.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Introduction to Excel formula errors

The easy kind: syntax errors

The triky ones: # ERRORs

Fixing errors – using IFERROR & ISERROR

Error checking & debug options

Using Errors deliberately – charts & data validation

A challenge for you – produce #NULL error

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

Understanding & Fixing Excel Errors:

Various Excel formula errors – what do they mean and how to fix them?

What to do when your Excel formula is not working

Using F9 key to debug formulas

**Error handing in Excel**

IFERROR formula – what is it, how to use it?

Excel formula auditing features – how to use them?

Hiding errors in print outs

**Using Errors deliberately**

As in dynamic charts – example

As in better user data validation – example

**Related Podcasts:**

CP026: Excel operators – an introductions & overview

CP008: How to maintain workbooks created by others

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

How do you tackle errors?

My favorite techniques for error handling are – IFERROR & F9 key.

**What about you?** What kind of errors do you face frequently. How do you handle them? What do you do to ensure fewer errors in your reports and dashboards? Please share your tips in the comments area.

Also, tell me which formulas you will write to produce #NULL error in Excel.

The post CP037: Error error on the wall, How do I fix you all? – Understanding & Fixing Excel Errors appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

How to do trend analysis in Excel - episode 36 - chandoo.org podcast — **CP036: How to do trend analysis using Excel?** Jun 11, 2015
In the 36th session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s follow the trend.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

A quick trip to down under

What is trend analysis

4 types of common trends

linear

curve

cyclical

strange

Doing trend analysis in Excel – the process

How to use trend analysis results

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

Trend Analysis – formulas & chart techniques:

Trend analysis & forecasting – part 1

Trend analysis & forecasting – part 2

Trend analysis & forecasting – part 3

**Calculating moving averages in Excel**

**Regression & complex trend analysis:**

Reference book: Data smart by John Foreman

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

How do you analyze trends?

For my work, I use both cyclical & linear trend analysis techniques. The insights from these help me to optimize my blog posts, understand best times to publish new articles & analyze how well various marketing initiatives are working out.

**What about you?** How do you analyze trends? What techniques do you apply? Please share your tips in the comments area.

The post CP036: How to do trend analysis using Excel? appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP035: Interview with Dan Fylstra on origin of Solver & its future - Chandoo.org podcast — **CP035: on Solver, its story and future – Interview with Dan Fylstra** May 21, 2015
In the 35th session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s hear from Dan Fylstra, the creator of Excel Solver. I had the fortune of meeting Dan when I was in Santa Clara last month. I immediately asked him to be part of Chandoo.org podcast and he was kind enough to agree. So today let’s take a trip down the memory line, hear him talk about some of the fascinating all the early development stories of Solver, VisiCalc & Excel.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Introduction

Early days of Solver

Working with VisiCalc, migration to Excel

What keeps Dan busy these days

Advice for anyone planning to learn Solver & business modelling

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

Dan’s website:

**Solver.com**

Dan Fylstra on Wikipedia

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

What is your solver story?

I have learned about optimization algorithms in 2000. It has been a love-hate relationship for first several years, but then as I started my own business, I now understand how relevant modelling & optimization skills are.

**What about you?** What is your favourite solver story? Please share it in the comments section.

Note: Dan’s image is copyright of computerhistory.org

The post CP035: on Solver, its story and future – Interview with Dan Fylstra appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP034 - Advanced Excel Essentials book talk with Jordan Goldmeier — **CP034: Advanced Excel Essentials book talk with Jordan Goldmeier** Apr 23, 2015
In the 34th session of Chandoo.org podcast, Let’s hear from Jordan Goldmeier – my friend, fellow blogger, Excel blogger & author. After many years of interaction thru email, blogs, Skype calls, finally I met him at PASS BA conference at Santa Clara this week. He gave me a copy of his new book – Advanced Excel Essentials and I immediately asked him to do a podcast. So here we go.

What is in this session?

In this podcast,

Introduction

What is this book all about

Sample chapter review – User forms

Design principles for creating advanced user interactions

How to become advanced Excel user – pathway recommended by Jordan

More info about Jordan

A secret for you

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

Books recommended / mentioned in this podcast

**Advanced Excel Essentials** by Jordan Goldmeier

Data Smart by John Foreman

Professional XL Development by Rob, Dennis & Stephen

Predictive Analytics by Conrad Carlberg

Data Science for Business by Foster & Tom

**User form examples:**

Creating a spreadsheet wizard to collect data

**Resources on learning VBA & Advanced Excel**

Introduction to VBA

Advanced Excel skills & resources

**About Jordan & his work:**

Option Explicit VBA – Jordan’s blog

Excel TV – where Jordan along with Rick & Oz share tips & interviews

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Have you read Advanced Excel Essentials book?

I will be honest, I only thumbed thru a few chapters. But I plan to read the book on my flight back to India (I am typing this from my hotel room in Santa Clara).

**What about you?** Have you read Jordan’s book? If so how do you like it? Please share your feedback & book recommendations in the comments area.

Note: All the links to books mentioned in this page use my Amazon affiliate code. This means, when you buy the book from Amazon thru these links, I get a few cents commission. My motivation for recommending these books is very simple. They make you awesome, so I recommend them. I would have recommended them even when there is no commission involved. Thanks for supporting Chandoo.org & happy reading.

The post CP034: Advanced Excel Essentials book talk with Jordan Goldmeier appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP033 - There is an Easter egg in this podcast - Excel tips from Chandoo.org podcast listeners — **CP033: There is an Easter egg in this podcast!!!** Apr 09, 2015
In the 33rd session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s turn the mic to our listeners and hear their tips.

What is in this session?

This session has 2 things.

A surprise Easter egg (an Excel tip hidden in the podcast audio)

Collection of Excel tips recorded & submitted by Chandoo.org readers

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

Keyboard & Mouse shortcuts

Comprehensive list of Excel keyboard shortcuts

Double click tricks for Excel

**Chart formatting tips:**

5 rules for making awesome column charts

More charting principles

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

Did you find the Easter egg?

Now that you found the Easter egg, it is your turn. Go ahead and leave a comment with cryptic message. Share your favorite Excel tip or ideas with us.

Thanks to the contributors

Many many thanks to both Roberts, Micky, TJ, Val & Orkun. It was fun learning from you.

The post CP033: There is an Easter egg in this podcast!!! appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP032: Rules for making legendary column charts - Chandoo.org podcast - Become awesome in Excel — **CP032: Rules for making legendary column charts** Apr 02, 2015
In the 32nd session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s make legendary column charts.

What is in this session?

Column charts are everywhere. As analysts, we are expected to create flawless, strikingly beautiful & insightful column charts all the time. Do you know the simple rules that can help you create legendary column charts?

**That is our topic for this podcast session.**

In this podcast, you will learn

Few personal announcements

Rule 0: Start at zero

Rule 1: Sort the chart

Rule 2: Slap a title on it

Rule 3: Axis + grid-lines vs. Lables

Rule 4: Moderate formatting

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

**Companion article**

5 rules for making awesome column charts

More charting principles

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

How do you make your column charts awesome?

I shared my favorite techniques in the podcast. Now it’s your turn.

**What about you?** What rules & techniques do you use to make your column charts awesome? Please share in the comments section.

Subscribe to our podcast and get latest episodes automatically

Use below link to add our podcast to iTunes. For other options (Android, Windows phone or RSS) click the link below. Thank you.

Other options to subscribe

The post CP032: Rules for making legendary column charts appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Invisibility Tricks - How to make anything in Excel disappear - CP031 - Chandoo.org podcast — **CP031: Invisibility Tricks – How to make things disappear in Excel?** Mar 05, 2015
In the 31st session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s disappear.

What is in this session?

Spreadsheets are complex things. They have outputs, calculation tabs, inputs, VBA code, from controls, charts, pivot tables and occasional picture of hello kitty. But when it comes to making a workbook production ready, you may want to hide away few things so it looks tidy.

**That is our topic for this podcast session.**

In this podcast, you will learn

Quick announcements first anniversary of our podcast etc.

Hiding cells,

Hiding rows & columns

Hiding chart data points

On/off effect with form controls, conditional formatting

Hiding sheets

Making objects, charts, pictures disappear

Disabling grid-lines

Turning off formula bar

Getting rid of headings

Hiding things in print

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

**Hiding cell content**

How to hide cell contents using custom cell formatting

Conditional hiding examples

Introduction to custom cell formatting

**Hiding chart data points / series**

Dynamic chart with multiple series

Collapse / Expand charts

**Hiding objects, shapes & charts**

On/off help using shapes & VBA

On/off switch using VBA

**Hiding things in Print**

An overview of printing in Excel

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

What is your favorite Excel magic trick?

My favorite tricks are using formulas + form controls to make charts dynamic, using conditional formatting, using VBA to animate stuff.

**What about you?** What magic you do to impress your boss & colleagues? Please share your tips & ideas in the comments section.

Subscribe to our podcast and get latest episodes automatically

Use below link to add our podcast to iTunes. For other options (Android, Windows phone or RSS) click the link below. Thank you.

Other options to subscribe

The post CP031: Invisibility Tricks – How to make things disappear in Excel? appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

How to detect fraud in data - 5 techniques for you - CP030 - Chandoo.org podcast — **CP030: Detecting fraud in data using Excel – 5 techniques for you** Feb 19, 2015
In the 30th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s learn how to **uncover fraud in data.**

What is in this session?

In the wake of hedge fund scams, accounting frauds and globalization, We, analysts are constantly second guessing every source of data. So how do you answer a simple question like, “am I being lied to?” while looking at a set of numbers your supplier has sent you.

Here is an email Peter, one of our readers, sent me last week:

Dear Mr. Chandoo

Shown numbers are measurements from a certain industry process. They are sent to me from a subcontractor. I have to validate these numbers. But **am I being lied to**? Did they make up the values themselves?
Values can be between 1 and 6 per contract. They are not necessarily normal distributed because of different batches.

That got me thinking?

**That is our topic for this podcast session.**

In this podcast, you will learn

Quick announcements about 50 ways & 200k BRM

Introduction to fraud detection

5 techniques for detecting fraud

Benford’s law

Auto correlation

Discontinuity at zero

Analysis of distribution

Learning systems & decision trees

Implementing these techniques in Excel

A word of caution

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

**50 ways to analyze data course:**

Know more & join us

**Fraud Analysis theory & examples**

Benford’s law

Autocorrelation theory, example

Discontinuity explained, usage in hedge fund scam data analysis

Various Excel analysis models

**Commonly occurring distributions**

Normal distribution

Poisson distribution

Exponential distribution

Binomial distribution

**Excel formulas & features to help you with fraud analysis**

SUMIFS / COUNTIFS formula

FREQUENCY() function

Data Analysis Toolpak (enable this free add-in from Developer > Add-ins)

CORREL() function

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF]

How do you detect fraud?

I never had to detect fraud. So when *Peter* sent that email, I learned about it by researching. Based on the little I know about this field, my personal favorites are Benford’s law, distribution analysis, discontinuity at expected value.

**What about you?** Do you deal with data that has certain amount of fraud? How do you detect and analyze it? Please share your suggestions & tips in comments area.

Subscribe to our podcast and get latest episodes automatically

Use below link to add our podcast to iTunes. For other options (Android, Windows phone or RSS) click the link below. Thank you.

Other options to subscribe

The post CP030: Detecting fraud in data using Excel – 5 techniques for you appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP029: Impress your boss with Excel charts - 6 step road map for you - Chandoo.org podcast — **CP029: Impress your boss with Excel charts – 6 step road map for you** Feb 05, 2015
In the 29th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s **impress the boss with Excel charts**.

What is in this session?

*Many Excel charts live a short life.* They spawn in an ambitious analyst’s spreadsheet. They go to boss with *literally* flying colors. The boss frowns, they disappear in to recycle bin.

Don’t curse your Excel charts with short life span.

Here is a 6 step road map to help you create awesome Excel charts, *everytime.*

**That is our topic for this podcast session.**

In this podcast, you will learn

Quick announcements about 50 ways & Einstein

6 step road map for charting success

ONE: Dig your data

TWO: Validate insights

THREE: Pick charts that go well

FOUR: Add title & message

FIVE: Remove clutter

SIX: Prompt action

A real life example with road map in action

Resources for creating awesome charts

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

**50 ways to analyze data course:**

Join the waiting list

Course launching on 11th of Feb

**Book recommendation**

Albert Einstein – his life & universe by *Walter Isaacson*

**Chart creation process & tips:**

Selecting right chart for your data

Tips for creating awesome column charts

Best charts to depict % progress

Never use simple numbers in your dashboards

**More charting principles & chart examples**

**Additional resources for charting:**

Dashboard contest entries & winners – 2014, 2012, 2011, 2010

NY Times visualization lab

Charting tutorials & best practices from Jon Peltier

Advanced Excel chart examples from Roberto *et al*

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF].

How do you impress your boss with charts?

My personal favorites are interactive charts & dashboard displays.

**What about you?** How do you impress your boss with Excel charts? What techniques & process you follow? Please share your thoughts and tips in comments.

Subscribe to our podcast and get latest episodes automatically

Use below link to add our podcast to iTunes. For other options (Android, Windows phone or RSS) click the link below. Thank you.

Other options to subscribe

The post CP029: Impress your boss with Excel charts – 6 step road map for you appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP028 - How to tell business logic & rules to Excel formulas - an introduction to Excel logic functions - Chandoo.org podcast — **CP028: How to tell business logic & rules to Excel?** Jan 22, 2015
In the 28th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s **figure out** **how to express business rules & logic to Excel**.

What is in this session?

*What good are spreadsheets if they can’t solve business problems?*

But we all struggle when it comes to modeling real world business conditions in Excel. For example, if you have below business rule to decide how much discount to offer a customer,

If the customer bought 3 or more times previously and offer 15% discount

If the customer bought 1 or 2 times previously AND customer’s age is >40, offer 10% discount

If the customer visited our New York store between 6PM-9PM offer 5% discount

Else no discount

How would you go about modeling these in Excel?

**That is our topic for this podcast session.**

In this podcast, you will learn

The challenge of modeling business logic & rules in Excel

My struggles with such formulas in early days

4 features of Excel that can help you with this.

1. Logical formulas

AND

OR

NOT

XOR

2. Support formulas

IF

IFERROR

CHOOSE

3. Information formulas

IS functions

4. Operators

Brackets

+*- operators

Example business rules & how to write formulas for them

Conclusions

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

**Logical formulas – Syntax & Examples:**

AND

OR

NOT

XOR

**Support functions & concepts:**

IF formula – tutorial & examples

Excel operators – an overview

IFERROR formula

CHOOSE formula

**Advanced business rules & scenarios:**

Advanced SUMPRODUCT queries

SUMIFS formula for dates in a range

**Homework for you:**

Write a formula to check if 2 dates are in same month

Write a formula to check if few cells have same value

An IF formula challenge for you

Can you calculate sales commission?

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF].

What challenges do you face when modeling business rules / logic?

When I was learning Excel, I struggled a few years understanding the concept of logical functions. Of course I was in college, so I had all the time in world to explore and learn.

**What about you?** Do you write formulas that model real world logic? Where do you struggle? Please share your thoughts & inputs in comments section so that I can help you better.

IF(AND(like chandoo.org, love podcast),

If you like chandoo.org & our podcast, please take a minute and do one or both of below:

Leave a honest review on iTunes

Share our podcast link with a colleague or friend – Send them here: chandoo.org/podcast

Other options to subscribe

The post CP028: How to tell business logic & rules to Excel? appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP027 - Become awesome in Excel & your work with these 15 strategies - Chandoo.org podcast — **CP027: 15 proven strategies to be awesome in 2015** Jan 08, 2015
In the 27th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s **pave way for an awesome 2015.**

We are going to talk about 15 proven strategies for making you awesome in Excel & Your work.

What is in this session?

We all get fresh dose of energy, enthusiasm & drive during new years. So we aim for bigger & more awesome things. But once the first few weeks are over, we just settle down to the normal rhythm and forget about these big, hairy & audacious goals.

Let’s make 2015 different. In this podcast, Let’s understand how you can become awesome in Excel & your work this year, with 15 proven strategies:

Announcements – my new year & plans for next few months

Becoming awesome – 3 important areas of focus

Learning

New formulas

New features

Different charts

Macros

Linkup Excel with other software

Get a book

Join a course

Application

Take up a work project

Consulting

Mimic a chart in Excel

Beyond XL – Power Pivot etc.

Sharing

Forums

Helping a colleague

Comment on blogs

Train your team

Listen to this session

Click here to download the MP3 file.

Links & Resources mentioned in this podcast

**Upcoming live events:**

PASS Business Analytics Conference 2015

Advanced Excel & Power Pivot Masterclass in Australia – 2015

**Learning Excel:**

Advanced & Array formulas

Solver

What is a Macro?

Excel VBA – Information, tutorials & examples

Recommended Excel books

Online classes from Chandoo.org

**Applying Excel skills:**

New York Times interactive visualizations

Power BI

**Sharing Excel Skills:**

Chandoo.org Forum

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF].

How are you planning to be awesome in 2015?

I am going to learn something new, apply & share more in 2015. I will also be meeting people thru live events (like conferences or masterclasses) and learning from them.

**What about you?** How are you planning to be awesome in 2015? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

Subscribe to Chandoo.org Podcast

Other options to subscribe

The post CP027: 15 proven strategies to be awesome in 2015 appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2015 - from Chandoo.org — **Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2015 [Holiday Gift Inside]** Dec 23, 2014
A big, warm & pleasant hello to you.

**I wish you a merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2015.** May your holidays be filled with joy, togetherness, celebrations and fulfillment. May your new year be filled with hope, energy and awesomeness.

*I want to tell you how thankful I am for all your support in this year.* Every time you visit our website, read an article, leave a comment, enroll in a course, purchase a product, read one of my books, listen to a podcast episode, watch a video or tell your friends about Chandoo.org, I feel nothing but gratitude, thankfulness and amazement. 2014 is the most successful year since starting Chandoo.org, all thanks to you. **Heartfelt thanks to you, from my family, staff and volunteers.**

**About this year’s holiday card**

We took this picture recently when we went to Udaipur (a city in northern India). For a change, no one closed their eyes when the camera clicked. Click on the picture to enlarge.

A holiday gift for you…

It gives me immense pleasure to give a gift to you this holiday season. Unfortunately, my sleigh is no where to be found and the reindeer have wandered away. So I can’t drop this gift thru your chimney. Would you be a darling and download it by clicking below button?

Special Holiday Podcast

Here is a special holiday greeting for all our podcast listeners.

Click here to download the MP3 audio of this podcast

Holiday schedule of Chandoo.org

This year, I am going to lie low and let my kids take over the blog during holiday season.

I am just kidding.

Even though my kids will not be posting anything, I will try to make some time to update the blog during next 2 weeks. Here is what you can expect.

29 December (Monday) – People & websites that helped me in 2014, thank you message

31 December (Wednesday) – Best of Chandoo.org in 2014

1 January (Thursday) – Free 2015 Excel calendar & daily planner template

5 January (Monday) – Regular broadcasting of Excel awesomeness

**Our forum:**

Our Excel forum will be up and running during the holiday season. That said, I would not expect quick help for any problems as most of our regular members would be away on holiday break. You have higher chance of getting true for rand()=rand() than finding someone to answer your Excel question during next few days. So be patient and enjoy the holidays.

**Online store:**

Our online store will be open. Any purchase you make for training programs, templates or eBooks will be delivered as promised. If you join our course on Christmas eve or day or on new year day, please expect to receive your password by the end of next working day. If you have any support query, please expect to hear a resolution by 7th of January.

Get Excel School, VBA Classes, PM Templates, Dashboard Templates or The VLOOKUP Book

**Emails:**

If you are sending me an email, please expect a reply only after 7th of Jan. If you have something urgent to say, you can call me (find my number on the site).

Once again…,

On behalf of my family, our staff, volunteers and well wishers, let me wish you a very pleasant holiday season and an awesome start to 2015.

The post Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2015 [Holiday Gift Inside] appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

**Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2015 [Holiday Gift Inside]** Dec 23, 2014
A big, warm & pleasant hello to you.

**I wish you a merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2015.** May your holidays be filled with joy, togetherness, celebrations and fulfillment. May your new year be filled with hope, energy and awesomeness.

*I want to tell you how thankful I am for all your support in this year.* Every time you visit our website, read an article, leave a comment, enroll in a course, purchase a product, read one of my books, listen to a podcast episode, watch a video or tell your friends about Chandoo.org, I feel nothing but gratitude, thankfulness and amazement. 2014 is the most successful year since starting Chandoo.org, all thanks to you. **Heartfelt thanks to you, from my family, staff and volunteers.**

**About this year’s holiday card**

We took this picture recently when we went to Udaipur (a city in northern India). For a change, no one closed their eyes when the camera clicked. Click on the picture to enlarge.

A holiday gift for you…

It gives me immense pleasure to give a gift to you this holiday season. Unfortunately, my sleigh is no where to be found and the reindeer have wandered away. So I can’t drop this gift thru your chimney. Would you be a darling and download it by clicking below button?

Special Holiday Podcast

Here is a special holiday greeting for all our podcast listeners.

Click here to download the MP3 audio of this podcast

Holiday schedule of Chandoo.org

This year, I am going to lie low and let my kids take over the blog during holiday season.

I am just kidding.

Even though my kids will not be posting anything, I will try to make some time to update the blog during next 2 weeks. Here is what you can expect.

29 December (Monday) – People & websites that helped me in 2014, thank you message

31 December (Wednesday) – Best of Chandoo.org in 2014

1 January (Thursday) – Free 2015 Excel calendar & daily planner template

5 January (Monday) – Regular broadcasting of Excel awesomeness

**Our forum:**

Our Excel forum will be up and running during the holiday season. That said, I would not expect quick help for any problems as most of our regular members would be away on holiday break. You have higher chance of getting true for rand()=rand() than finding someone to answer your Excel question during next few days. So be patient and enjoy the holidays.

**Online store:**

Our online store will be open. Any purchase you make for training programs, templates or eBooks will be delivered as promised. If you join our course on Christmas eve or day or on new year day, please expect to receive your password by the end of next working day. If you have any support query, please expect to hear a resolution by 7th of January.

Get Excel School, VBA Classes, PM Templates, Dashboard Templates or The VLOOKUP Book

**Emails:**

If you are sending me an email, please expect a reply only after 7th of Jan. If you have something urgent to say, you can call me (find my number on the site).

Once again…,

On behalf of my family, our staff, volunteers and well wishers, let me wish you a very pleasant holiday season and an awesome start to 2015.

The post Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2015 [Holiday Gift Inside] appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

All about Excel Operators - Chandoo.org Podcast - Session 26 — **CP026: All about Excel !@#$%^+/*(}][** Dec 04, 2014
In the 26th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s **learn all about Excel !@#$%^+/*(}][<.**

I am talking about Excel operators, you silly.

What is in this session?

Do you know Excel has more than 25 operators? That is right. There are a variety of operators beyond the simple + – * and /.

In this podcast, let’s understand all about these operators and how to use them. You will learn,

Why there is a gap between last & this podcast session

About Excel operators

Arithmetic operators

Text operators

Reference operators

Comparison operators

Closing thoughts

Listen to this session

Click here to listen if the player is not showing up.

Links & Resources on Excel operators & Formulas

Using wild cards in Excel formulas

SPACE operator for finding values at intersection

Top 10 formulas for aspiring analysts

**Excel Dashboard Templates**

**Click here to know about our Excel Dashboard Templates**

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF].

What are your favorite Excel operators?

My favorites are % ? * and []

**What about you?** What are your favorite operators and why? Please share your thoughts in comments.

Subscribe to Chandoo.org Podcast

Other options to subscribe

The post CP026: All about Excel !@#$%^+/*(}][< appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Create awesome Excel dashboards from your raw data in few minutes - Introducing Chandoo.org Dashboard Templates — **CP026: All about Excel !@#$%^+/*(}][** Dec 04, 2014
In the 26th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s **learn all about Excel !@#$%^+/*(}][<.**

I am talking about Excel operators, you silly.

What is in this session?

Do you know Excel has more than 25 operators? That is right. There are a variety of operators beyond the simple + – * and /.

In this podcast, let’s understand all about these operators and how to use them. You will learn,

Why there is a gap between last & this podcast session

About Excel operators

Arithmetic operators

Text operators

Reference operators

Comparison operators

Closing thoughts

Listen to this session

Click here to listen if the player is not showing up.

Links & Resources on Excel operators & Formulas

Using wild cards in Excel formulas

SPACE operator for finding values at intersection

Top 10 formulas for aspiring analysts

**Excel Dashboard Templates**

**Click here to know about our Excel Dashboard Templates**

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF].

What are your favorite Excel operators?

My favorites are % ? * and []

**What about you?** What are your favorite operators and why? Please share your thoughts in comments.

Subscribe to Chandoo.org Podcast

Other options to subscribe

The post CP026: All about Excel !@#$%^+/*(}][< appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP025: Sexy on spreadsheet, Ugly on printout? - Learn how to create spreadsheets that look great and print great. - Chandoo.org podcast — **CP025: Sexy on spreadsheet, Ugly on Printout** Nov 06, 2014
In the 25th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s **learn how to avoid SSUP syndrome.**

What is in this session?

Most of us suffer from *Sexy on the Spreadsheet, Ugly on Printout syndrome.* I used to suffer from it too. This happens because we spend all our attention creating that perfect workbook, report or model. And then, we forget about making the proper print settings.

In this podcast, let’s understand how to create awesome workbooks that look great and print great.

In this podcast, you will learn,

Frozen & Cars, where my free time goes

Primer on print settings

Width & height of printouts

Page breaks

Row & column repetitions on every page

Size & orientation of paper

Dealing with unprintables

Proofing your print settings

Printing what’s not on screen

Closing thoughts

Listen to this session

Click here to listen if the player is not showing up.

Links & Resources for printing awesome workbooks:

Printing worksheets in one page

How to print Excel cell comments

Hide formula errors when printing

**Advanced Printing scenarios**

Printing multiple pages with different layouts

Printing Excel reports via Word

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF].

How do you stay away from SSUP?

In the podcast, I revealed all my favorite ways format print outs.

**What about you?** How do you ensure that your spreadsheets look as beautiful on print as they are on screen? What tips you follow?

**Please share your thoughts in the comments area.**

The post CP025: Sexy on spreadsheet, Ugly on Printout appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

**CP024: Customize Excel to boost your productivity** Oct 30, 2014
In the 24th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s **customize Excel** so we become productive.

What is in this session?

Each of us use Excel in our own way. And yet, we all end up using the *same* Excel. That is not fair. Shouldn’t the Excel of an accountant be different from Excel of a teacher?

In this podcast, lets understand some of the powerful & useful ways to customize Excel so that we can do our work better. Tune in only if you are serious about productivity.

You can get **Excel Customization Handbook** **free**. Listen to the podcast for instructions.

In this podcast, you will learn,

Announcements

Why customize Excel?

Customization options:

Excel Options

Quick Access Toolbar

Excel Ribbon

File menu / back stage view

Themes, styles & templates

Personal Macros

Closing thoughts & Bonus give away instructions

Listen to this session

Sneak-peek at our ready to use dashboard templates

In the podcast, I spoke about my upcoming product – Ready to use Dashboard Templates. They are releasing on 13th of November (Thursday), 2014. Meanwhile, take a sneak-peek at them.

**Click on the images to enlarge.**

Links & Resources for customizing Excel:

**Customizing Excel Options & File menu**

Excel Productivity Secrets (2007 & up)

Excel customization tips from our readers

Understanding backstage view (file menu) in Excel

**Customizing QAT & Ribbon**

Free guide to learn & use Excel Ribbon

How to add your personal macros to QAT

How to create your own ribbons in Excel

How to add your macros to Ribbon?

Getting Excel 2003 style toolbar in Excel 2007 & up

**Working with Personal Macros**

Setting up & Using Personal Macro workbook

Example personal macros for you to copy

**Related Podcasts**

CPGIFT – Guide to Excel Ribbon

CP020 – Time saving strategies for Business Analysts

CP022 – Introduction to VBA & Macros

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF].

How do you customize Excel to stay awesome?

In the podcast, I revealed all my favorite ways to customize Excel. Now its your turn.

Go ahead and speak-up. Tell me how you customize Excel to maximize its potential. **Please share your tips & suggestions in the comments area**.

The post CP024: Customize Excel to boost your productivity appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

Ready to use Excel Dashboard Templates from Chandoo.org example 1 — **CP024: Customize Excel to boost your productivity** Oct 30, 2014
In the 24th session of Chandoo.org podcast, let’s **customize Excel** so we become productive.

What is in this session?

Each of us use Excel in our own way. And yet, we all end up using the *same* Excel. That is not fair. Shouldn’t the Excel of an accountant be different from Excel of a teacher?

In this podcast, lets understand some of the powerful & useful ways to customize Excel so that we can do our work better. Tune in only if you are serious about productivity.

You can get **Excel Customization Handbook** **free**. Listen to the podcast for instructions.

In this podcast, you will learn,

Announcements

Why customize Excel?

Customization options:

Excel Options

Quick Access Toolbar

Excel Ribbon

File menu / back stage view

Themes, styles & templates

Personal Macros

Closing thoughts & Bonus give away instructions

Listen to this session

Sneak-peek at our ready to use dashboard templates

In the podcast, I spoke about my upcoming product – Ready to use Dashboard Templates. They are releasing on 13th of November (Thursday), 2014. Meanwhile, take a sneak-peek at them.

**Click on the images to enlarge.**

Links & Resources for customizing Excel:

**Customizing Excel Options & File menu**

Excel Productivity Secrets (2007 & up)

Excel customization tips from our readers

Understanding backstage view (file menu) in Excel

**Customizing QAT & Ribbon**

Free guide to learn & use Excel Ribbon

How to add your personal macros to QAT

How to create your own ribbons in Excel

How to add your macros to Ribbon?

Getting Excel 2003 style toolbar in Excel 2007 & up

**Working with Personal Macros**

Setting up & Using Personal Macro workbook

Example personal macros for you to copy

**Related Podcasts**

CPGIFT – Guide to Excel Ribbon

CP020 – Time saving strategies for Business Analysts

CP022 – Introduction to VBA & Macros

Transcript of this session:

Download this podcast transcript [PDF].

How do you customize Excel to stay awesome?

In the podcast, I revealed all my favorite ways to customize Excel. Now its your turn.

Go ahead and speak-up. Tell me how you customize Excel to maximize its potential. **Please share your tips & suggestions in the comments area**.

The post CP024: Customize Excel to boost your productivity appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.

CP023: My experience with Hudhud Cyclone [personal story] Oct 16, 2014

In the 23rd session of Chandoo.org podcast, lets talk about my experience with Hudhud cyclone.

Note: This podcast session has no Excel tips. It is a story of how our family is surviving the effects & aftermath of destructing Hudhud cyclone that recently (on 12th October) passed thru our city. Hopefully, you still find it interesting & inspiring. If you are expecting some Excel tips, check again next week.

What is in this session?

Growing up, I lived all my childhood in coastal cities. So cyclones & severe storms are not new to me. But first time, I have experienced anything as severe, destructive & long as Cyclone Hudhud. After the cyclone, we (our family and 1000s of other families in Vizag, our city) had to endure days with no power, water, cellular signals and access to essential supplies. Fortunately, great progress has been made in the last few days and things are restoring to normalcy. We (our locality) is expecting to have power & regular water supply by this Sunday (19th of October).

In this podcast, you will know,

My experience with Hudhud cyclone
What I gained from it
What I am thankful for

Listen to this podcast

Transcript of this session:.

Full transcript of this podcast will be uploaded once it is ready.

Have you experienced anything similar? Please share your stories & thoughts with us

If you ever had a close encounter with a natural calamity, you know what I am talking about. Go ahead and share your stories, good thoughts and blessings in the comments. Thanks for your support.

PS: As of now, we have driven to a small city 150 miles away from our home as we ran out of water & our back-up electric supply thru Solar panels failed yesterday night. We will return home by Sunday.

The post CP023: My experience with Hudhud Cyclone [personal story] appeared first on Chandoo.org - Learn Excel, Power BI & Charting Online.