Data Analytics Course for MBA Students
Data Analytics Course for MBA Students
Module 2: Excel for Data Analysis
Overview
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Excel is one of the most widely used tools in business analytics. It offers powerful features for organizing,
analyzing, and visualizing data.
Data Cleaning and Formatting
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- Removing duplicates: Use 'Remove Duplicates' under the Data tab.
- Trimming spaces: Use the TRIM() function.
- Converting data types: Use TEXT(), VALUE(), or DATE() functions.
- Handling missing data: Use IFERROR(), ISBLANK(), or filtering techniques.
Key Excel Functions for Analysis
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1. VLOOKUP() - Looks up a value in a table.
Example: =VLOOKUP("Product A", A2:C10, 2, FALSE)
2. IF() - Returns value based on a condition.
Example: =IF(A2>100, "High", "Low")
3. SUMIFS() - Sums data based on multiple criteria.
Example: =SUMIFS(C2:C100, A2:A100, "East", B2:B100, ">500")
4. COUNTIFS() - Counts data based on multiple criteria.
Example: =COUNTIFS(A2:A100, "Manager", B2:B100, ">30")
Data Analytics Course for MBA Students
5. CONCATENATE() / TEXTJOIN() - Combines data from multiple cells.
Pivot Tables
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- Summary tables that automatically sort, count, and total data.
- Drag and drop fields into "Rows", "Columns", "Values", and "Filters".
- Useful for summarizing large datasets without writing formulas.
Charts and Visualizations
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- Column/Bar charts: For comparing categories.
- Line charts: For trends over time.
- Pie charts: For showing proportions.
- Sparklines: Mini-charts inside a cell.
- Conditional Formatting: Color-coding based on rules.
Dashboard Basics
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- Use slicers for interactive filtering.
- Combine PivotTables, charts, and KPIs in one sheet.
- Ensure clarity and simplicity for stakeholders.
Case Study Example: Sales Dashboard
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You have sales data across regions, products, and time. Steps:
1. Clean the data (remove duplicates, format dates).
Data Analytics Course for MBA Students
2. Use PivotTables to summarize sales by region and product.
3. Create charts showing monthly trends.
4. Use slicers to filter by product category or sales rep.
5. Combine elements into a dashboard for executive insights.
Conclusion
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Mastering Excel equips you with essential skills to analyze business data efficiently. Its accessibility and
versatility make it a core tool for every MBA professional.