Finding Errors in Excel Spreadsheets - Greater Washington Society of CPAs

Overview

This intensive two-hour course addresses the critical need for accuracy and efficiency when developing spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel. Recognizing that even minor errors can have significant implications, this course delves deep into strategies and skills required to detect and correct errors in Excel. By the end of this course, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of how to efficiently identify and correct errors in Excel spreadsheets, enhancing their overall productivity and accuracy in their professional roles. This event may be a rebroadcast of a live event and the instructor will be available to answer your questions during the event.

Highlights

The major topics that will be covered in this class include:

Understanding Common Excel Errors: Gain insights into the most common types of errors encountered in Excel, including formula errors, reference errors, and logic errors.
Advanced Formulas and Functions: Learn to use advanced Excel functions and formulas that are crucial for error detection and data analysis.
Data Validation Techniques: Master the art of data validation to prevent errors before they occur. This includes setting up data validation rules and using conditional formatting to highlight potential inaccuracies.
Error Tracing and Auditing Tools: Delve into Excel's auditing tools to trace and fix errors. Learn to use Trace Precedents, Trace Dependents, and the Error Checking tool effectively.

Prerequisites

A comprehensive working knowledge of Excel

Designed For

This course is ideal for anyone who uses Excel extensively in their work, especially those involved in financial analysis, reporting, auditing, or any role where accuracy and efficiency in handling Excel spreadsheets are paramount.

Objectives

After attending this presentation, you will be able to...

Apply advanced Excel auditing tools, such as Trace Precedents, Trace Dependents, and the Error Checking feature, to effectively identify and rectify complex errors in financial spreadsheets.
Analyze and interpret common error messages and anomalies in Excel, enabling the ability to diagnose underlying issues in spreadsheet formulas and data inputs.
Distinguish between different types of Excel errors, including formula errors, reference errors, and logical errors, to implement targeted corrective actions for enhanced spreadsheet accuracy and reliability.