Excel Level 2 (Advanced) - Trainer Speaking Notes & Handout
Module 1 - Advanced Formulas & Functions
This module covers Excel's advanced functions. Explain how VLOOKUP searches for a value in the
first column of a range and returns a value in the same row. Compare it with INDEX & MATCH,
which is more flexible and works both horizontally and vertically. Show how IFERROR helps in
trapping and replacing errors with a user-friendly message. Use nested IFs to test multiple
conditions, and INDIRECT or OFFSET for referencing cells dynamically.
Module 2 - Data Tools
Here, you'll show how to clean and control data. Demonstrate Data Validation to limit what users
can input-like restricting age to between 18 and 60. Show Flash Fill to split names, remove titles, or
reformat numbers. Text to Columns helps separate names or dates from a single column. Removing
duplicates is crucial when working with large data imports.
Module 3 - PivotTables & PivotCharts
Explain PivotTables as a tool to summarize, filter, and group data quickly. Use a dataset with
products, regions, and sales to show this. Drag fields to Rows and Values to see summaries. Slicers
are visual filters that make dashboards interactive. PivotCharts convert PivotTables into
easy-to-read visuals.
Module 4 - Advanced Charting
Charting takes visualization to the next level. Combo charts let you combine bars and lines-great for
revenue vs. profit comparisons. Sparklines are tiny charts in a single cell-perfect for dashboards.
Dynamic charts update based on selections like dropdown menus-link them to named ranges or use
INDIRECT.
Module 5 - What-If Analysis & Scenario Tools
What-If tools help in forecasting and modeling. Goal Seek finds input values to reach a desired
result-like the number of units to sell for $5K profit. Data Tables let you vary inputs and observe
outputs, such as price vs. demand scenarios. Scenario Manager saves different models (Best Case,
Worst Case) to compare side by side.
Module 6 - Macros and Introduction to VBA
Macros are used to record repetitive tasks, and VBA adds programming control. Record a macro to
format reports automatically. Explain the VBA editor, how to view and edit macro code. Show how to
write a basic subroutine like clearing a range or highlighting top performers. Great for boosting
productivity.
Module 7 - Security and Workbook Management
Security features help control access. Protect sheets to prevent changes. Lock cells selectively.
Hide formulas to secure logic. Use the 'Inspect Document' tool before sending files externally to
remove hidden metadata like personal names or file paths.
Module 8 - Power Query Basics
Power Query allows importing, transforming, and combining data from different
sources-automatically. Show how to import multiple files from a folder, remove blank rows, split
columns, and merge tables. Refresh with one click. Great for monthly report automation or merging
decentralized reports.
