Excel Table & it’s Properties

What is an Excel table?

An Excel Table is not just any range of data with headings, but a specific Excel object that unlocks additional properties. Contrary to a random set of data, Tables work as a whole, something that can be very useful and make your Excel spreadsheet much easier to use, share, and update.

Convert the data into an excel table:

1. Select the dataset and got to Insert and select the table option in the table group.
2. Select the dataset and press Ctrl+T

How do I recognize an Excel Table?

By default, Excel tables have a very distinctive appearance, with blue banded rows. However, this format can be changed so it doesn’t guarantee you actually have a Table. But you can know you have an Excel Table when you select a cell and the Design tab shows up on the ribbon

The main benefits of converting data into Excel tables will be explained under the following topics.

1. Table headers remain visible even when you scroll down 
2. Tables are very easily formatted
3. Add or remove banded rows and columns from the Design tab, by simply ticking or un-ticking the checkboxes
4. Change the Style of the Table, using the Styles Gallery shown below
5. Filters are added to your data
6. Using calculated columns i.e. Tables drag formulas down automatically
7. You can add Totals to Tables automatically
8. Inserting and deleting rows and columns
9. Using structured reference i.e. Tables automatically name ranges and every time you update your table with new or additional data.
10. Tables automatically expand when you add new rows or columns
11. Dynamic charts
12. You can use Slicers and Timelines to filter your data and charts.
13. You can add Forms to facilitate the entry of new data

Steps to add the data entry form option to the Quick Access Toolbar:

1. Right-click on any of the existing icons in the Quick Access Toolbar.
2. Click on ‘Customize Quick Access Toolbar.
3. In the ‘Excel Options’ dialog box that opens, select the ‘All Commands’ option from the drop-down.
4. Scroll down the list of commands and select ‘Form’.
5. Click on the ‘Add’ button.
6. Click OK.