18.

Analysis Data Using Goal Seek And Solver

The purpose of analysing data using goal seek and solver is to find optimal solutions or make informed
decisions based on a desired outcome or target value. Both goal seek and solver are tools commonly
used in spreadsheet applications like Microsoft Excel.
Goal Seek: Goal seek is a feature that allows you to determine the input value needed to achieve a
specific result in a formula. It is particularly useful when you know the desired outcome but are
uncertain about the input required to reach that outcome. By specifying a target value and changing a
particular input, goal seek iteratively calculates the necessary value that will produce the desired result.
Solver: Solver is an add-in tool in Microsoft Excel that helps find the optimal solution for a complex
problem by adjusting multiple input variables. It can handle scenarios where multiple constraints or
conditions need to be met. Solver uses mathematical optimization techniques to analyse different
combinations of inputs and find the best possible solution. It can be used for tasks such as maximizing
or minimizing formula result, allocating resources efficiently, or optimizing production schedules.
The purpose of using goal seek and solver is to analyse data and identify the specific values or settings
that will achieve a desired outcome. These tools are especially helpful in scenarios where there are
multiple variables or constraints involved, and manual trial-and-error methods are not feasible or
efficient. By utilizing goal seek and solver, you can save time, improve accuracy, and make data-driven
decisions based on the results obtained.

Procedure

Let's see how to find the answer with Goal Seek:

1. Set up your data so that you have a formula cell and a changing cell dependent on the
formula cell.
2. Go to the Data tab > Forecast group, click the What if Analysis button, and select Goal

Seek…
 3. In the Goal Seek dialog box, define the cells/values to test and click OK:
o Set cell - the reference to the cell containing the formula (B5).
o To value - the formula result you are trying to achieve (1000).
o By changing cell - the reference for the input cell that you want to adjust (B3).

4. The Goal Seek Status dialog box will appear and let you know if a solution has been found. If
it succeeded, the value in the "changing cell" will be replaced with a new one. Click OK to
keep the new value or Cancel to restore the original one.

In this example, Goal Seek has found that 223 items (rounded up to the next integer) need to
be sold to achieve a revenue of $1,000.

If you are not sure you will be able to sell that many items, then maybe you can reach the target revenue
by changing the item price? To test this scenario, do Goal Seek analysis exactly as described above
except that you specify a different Changing cell (B2)
:

As the result, you will find out that if you increase the unit price to $11, you can reach $1,000 revenue

by selling only 100 items:

19. Scenarios Create Named Scenarios Show, Edit, Delete Scenarios

purpose
scenarios are used to create and manage different sets of input values that can be quickly applied to a
worksheet. This allows you to analyse and compare various scenarios without manually changing the
input values each time. Here's how you can create, name, edit, and delete scenarios:
1. Creating a Scenario: a. Open the Excel worksheet containing the data you want to analyse. b.
Identify the cells that contain the input values you want to change for different scenarios. c. Go
to the "Data" tab in the Excel ribbon and click on "What-If Analysis." d. Choose "Scenario
Manager" from the drop-down menu. e. In the Scenario Manager dialog box, click on "Add." f.
Specify a name for the scenario to differentiate it from others. g. Enter the values you want to
assign to the input cells for that scenario. h. Click "OK" to save the scenario.
2. Naming Scenarios: Naming scenarios helps you easily identify and manage different sets of
input values. To name a scenario: a. Open the Scenario Manager as described in the previous
section. b. Select the scenario you want to name. c. Click on "Edit" in the Scenario Manager
dialog box. d. Enter a descriptive name for the scenario in the "Scenario name" field. e. Click
"OK" to save the name.
 3. Editing a Scenario: To modify the input values of an existing scenario: a. Open the Scenario
Manager. b. Select the scenario you want to edit. c. Click on "Edit." d. Adjust the values for the
input cells. e. Click "OK" to save the changes.
4. Deleting a Scenario: If you want to remove a scenario from the Scenario Manager: a. Open the
Scenario Manager. b. Select the scenario you want to delete. c. Click on "Delete." d. Confirm the
deletion when prompted.
By creating named scenarios, you can easily switch between different sets of input values, compare
results, and analyse the impact of changes without manually adjusting the values each time. This can be
particularly useful when performing sensitivity analysis, conducting "what-if" scenarios, or exploring
different possibilities in your data analysis.

PURPOSE
The purpose of creating named scenarios and managing them in Excel is to facilitate the analysis of
different sets of input values and their impact on the resulting data. Here's an overview of the purposes
of creating, naming, editing, and deleting scenarios:
1. Creating Scenarios: Creating scenarios allows you to define specific combinations of input
values that represent different situations or scenarios. By creating multiple scenarios, you can
easily switch between them to observe how changes in input values affect the outcome of
formulas, calculations, or data analysis. This helps you explore various possibilities and evaluate
different scenarios without manually adjusting the input values each time.
2. Naming Scenarios: Naming scenarios provides a descriptive identifier for each set of input
values. Instead of using generic names like "Scenario 1" or "Scenario A," you can assign
meaningful names that represent the specific conditions or situations being model. This makes it
easier to identify and select the desired scenario when analysing the data.
3. Editing Scenarios: Editing scenarios allows you to modify the input values assigned to each
scenario. When new information becomes available or assumptions change, you can update the
values in a scenario to reflect the latest data. By editing scenarios, you can refine your analysis,
compare different versions, and explore the effects of adjusting specific input values.
4. Deleting Scenarios: Deleting scenarios is useful when you no longer need a particular scenario
or want to reduce clutter in the Scenario Manager. If a scenario becomes obsolete or no longer
serves the purpose of your analysis, you can remove it to streamline the list of available
scenarios.
Overall, the purpose of creating, naming, editing, and deleting scenarios in Excel is to enhance your
ability to analyse data, perform sensitivity analysis, and compare different sets of input values. This
functionality helps you make more informed decisions, understand the relationships between variables,
and evaluate the potential outcomes of various scenarios without repeatedly modifying the input values
manually.
PROCEDURE

Create Excel Scenario

1. On the Ribbon's Data tab, click What If Analysis

2. Click Scenario Manager

3. In Excel's Scenario Manager, click the Add button

4. Type name for the Scenario. For this example, use Marketing.
5. Press the Tab key, to move to the Changing cells box
6. On the worksheet, select cells B1
7. Hold the Ctrl key, and select cells B3:B4
Note: There is a limit of 32 changing cells
8. Press the Tab key, to move to the Comment box
9. (optional) Enter a comment that describes the scenario.
10. Click the OK button

11. The Scenario Values dialog box opens, with a box for each changing cell.
12. You could modify these values, but in this example they contain the values currently on the
worksheet, and don't need to be changed.
13. Click the OK button, to return to the Scenario Manager.
14. Click the Close button, to return to the worksheet
Show an Excel Scenario
Once you have created Scenarios, you can show them. In this example, the Finance scenario is currently
visible. To change to a different scenario:

1. On the Ribbon's Data tab, click What If Analysis, then click Scenario Manager.
2. The Scenario Manager dialog box opens, showing a list of scenarios in the workbook
3. In the list of Scenarios, select Marketing
4. Click the Show button
5. Click the Close button.
20. Creating A Scenario Summary Report
purpose
The purpose of creating a scenario summary report is to provide a concise overview of a particular
scenario or set of scenarios. This report aims to present the key details, analysis, and implications of the
scenario(s) in a clear and structured manner. It serves as a reference document for decision-makers,
stakeholders, or interested parties who need a comprehensive understanding of the scenario(s) without
delving into extensive details.
The scenario summary report typically includes the following components:
1. Executive Summary: This section offers a high-level overview of the scenario(s), providing a
brief description and highlighting the main points.
2. Introduction: Here, the report sets the context by outlining the purpose, scope, and objectives of
the scenario analysis.
3. Scenario Description: This section provides a detailed explanation of the scenario(s) under
consideration. It includes relevant background information, assumptions, and any specific
variables or factors considered in the analysis.
4. Methodology: The report describes the approach or methodology used to develop the
scenario(s), including data sources, models, techniques, or any other analytical tools employed.
This section also highlights any limitations or uncertainties associated with the analysis.
5. Results and Analysis: This part presents the findings and insights generated from the scenario
analysis. It includes quantitative and qualitative information, such as projected outcomes, trends,
potential risks, opportunities, or impacts associated with each scenario.
6. Key Assumptions: This section outlines the critical assumptions made during the scenario
development and analysis. It helps readers understand the basis for the scenarios and the
potential implications if these assumptions change.
7. Implications and Recommendations: Based on the analysis, this section discusses the potential
consequences, risks, or opportunities that each scenario presents. It may also offer
recommendations or strategies for addressing the identified challenges or capitalizing on the
potential benefits.
8. Conclusion: The report concludes by summarizing the main findings, implications, and any next
steps recommended.
9. Appendices: Supplementary information, data sources, detailed calculations, or additional
analyses that support the main report may be included in the appendices.
PROCEDURE
 Firstly, go to the Data tab from Ribbon.
 Following that, select the What-If Analysis option.
 Next, click on the Scenario Manager option from the drop-down.

Consequently, the Scenario Manager dialogue box will open on your screen as shown in the following

picture.
 Now, click on the Add option from the Scenario Manager dialogue box.
As a result, the Add Scenario dialogue box will be visible on your worksheet.

 After that, from the Add Scenario dialogue box, type the scenario name you want in
the Scenario Name box. In this case, we typed in Best Case.
 Then, click on the marked region of the following image.
 Following that, choose the range of cells where the inputs will change. Here, we have selected
the range $C$5:$D$9.
 Now, click on the marked area of the image below.

 Next, click on OK from the Edit Scenario dialogue box.

 Afterward,type in the values for the Best Case scenario in the marked boxes shown in the
following picture.

 After typing in the values, click on Add in the Scenario Values dialogue box.
 Now, type in the name of the second scenario. In this case, we used the name Worst Case.
 Following that, click on OK.

 Then, type in the values for the Worst Case scenario as shown in the following image.
 After inserting the values for the Worst Case scenario, click on OK.

 As a result, you will be redirected to the Scenario Manager dialogue box and click
on Summary from the dialogue box.
Consequently, the Scenario Summary dialogue box will open on your worksheet.

 Now, from the Scenario Summary dialogue box, choose the Report Type as Scenario
Summary.
 Following that, press and hold the CTRL key and select cells C10 and D10.
 Finally, click on OK.
There you go! You have successfully created a scenario summary report in Excel, which should look

like the following image.

21. Validating And Auditing: Set, Edit Validation Criteria For Data Entry
in A Cell Range Like: Whole Number, Decimal, List, Data, Time, Trace
Procedent, Dependent Cells.
PURPOSE
1. Whole Number: By setting a validation rule for whole numbers, you ensure that only integer
values can be entered into the designated cell range. This helps prevent any accidental input of
decimal numbers or non-numeric characters.
2. Decimal: When setting a validation rule for decimal numbers, you restrict the input to numeric
values with a specified number of decimal places. This ensures that users enter precise decimal
values and minimizes rounding errors.
3. List: By defining a validation rule as a list, you create a dropdown or a predefined set of
acceptable values for the cell range. This helps maintain consistency and prevents users from
entering invalid or inconsistent data.
4. Date: Setting a validation rule for dates ensures that only valid date entries are allowed in the
cell range. It prevents users from inputting incorrect formats or dates that fall outside the desired
range.
5. Time: Similar to date validation, setting a validation rule for time ensures that only valid time
entries are allowed. It restricts users from inputting invalid time formats or values outside the
desired range.
6. Trace Precedent: Auditing cells to trace their precedents helps identify the cells that contribute to
the calculation or value of a specific cell. It assists in understanding the source and dependencies
of the data, aiding in error detection and troubleshooting.
7. Trace Dependent Cells: Auditing cells to trace their dependents reveals which cells are
dependent on the value or calculation of a particular cell. It helps understand the impact of
changes made to the cell and identifies any potential downstream effects on other cells.
PROCEDURE

Whole Number
If you allow Whole numbers, you can set or exclude a range of numbers, or specify a minimum number
or maximum number.

To set the allowed values, you can

1. Type the values into the Data Validation dialog box

2. OR, Refer to cells on the worksheet
3. OR, Use formulas to set the values.

For example, in this example, the MAX and MIN functions set the minimum and maximum values,
based on values in cells J5:J9.

 Minimum: =MIN(J5:J9)
 Maximum: =MAX(J5:J9)

Decimal
If you allow Decimals, you can set or exclude a range of numbers, or specify a minimum number or
maximum number.

1. Type values into the Data Validation dialog box

2. OR, Refer to cells on the worksheet
3. OR, Use formulas to set the values
In this example, values are entered for the minimum and maximum.

List
You can create a drop down list of items to select in a cell, or group of cells. See the examples and
instructions here: Data Validation

For example, show a drop down list of weekday names

Date
If you allow Dates, you can set or exclude a range of dates, or specify a minimum date or maximum
date.

1. Type the dates into the Data Validation dialog box

2. OR, Refer to cells that contain dates on the worksheet
3. OR, Use formulas to set the dates
See more Date Rule examples

For example, enter a date that is between the 2 dates entered in worksheet cells F1 and F2.

Time
If you allow Times, you can set or exclude a range of numbers, or specify a minimum number or
maximum number.

1. Type the times into the Data Validation dialog box

2. OR, Refer to cells that contain times on the worksheet
3. OR, Use formulas to set the times

For example, type a start time and end time in the data validation settings. Here, the start time is 12
noon, and the end time is 1:30 PM.
22. Identify Cells with Missing Dependents
Purpose

Identifying cells with missing dependents refers to the process of finding cells within a spreadsheet or
dataset that do not have any other cells depending on their values or calculations. In other words, these
cells are not referenced or used by any other cells in the dataset.

The purpose of identifying cells with missing dependents is to evaluate the significance and relevance
of these cells. It serves the following purposes:

1. Data Cleanup: Identifying cells with missing dependents helps in identifying and eliminating
unnecessary or redundant data. If certain cells are not being used by any other cells, they might
not be contributing to the overall analysis or calculations. Removing such cells can simplify the
dataset and improve data cleanliness.

2. Error Detection: Cells with missing dependents may indicate potential errors or inconsistencies
in the dataset. It is possible that the cells were intended to be used in calculations but were not
properly referenced. By identifying these cells, you can investigate and correct any errors in data
entry or formula usage.

3. Optimization: Analysing cells with missing dependents can help optimize the spreadsheet or
dataset. By identifying unused cells, you can potentially reorganize the data or formulas to make
them more efficient. Removing unused cells can also reduce file size and improve performance.

4. Documentation and Understanding: Knowing which cells do not have any dependents can help
document and understand the structure of the dataset or spreadsheet. It provides insights into the
relationships between cells and assists in comprehending how different data elements are
utilized.

To identify cells with missing dependents, you can use various methods depending on the software or
tools being used. Spreadsheet applications like Microsoft Excel often provide auditing features or
formulas that can highlight or list cells without dependents. Additionally, data analysis tools or
programming languages offer functions or scripts to identify unused or unreferenced cells.

By identifying cells with missing dependents, you can improve data quality, detect errors, optimize your
dataset, and gain a better understanding of the relationships within your data.

23. Creating Applications in Spreadsheet and Macros

PURPOSE

The purpose of creating applications in spreadsheets and using macros is to automate processes,
increase efficiency, and enhance functionality within the spreadsheet software. By building custom
applications and utilizing macros, users can achieve the following objectives:

1. Automation: Applications in spreadsheets and macros enable the automation of repetitive tasks,
reducing manual effort and saving time. By writing scripts or using macro recording features,
users can create routines that perform complex calculations, data manipulation, formatting, and
other actions automatically.
 2. Customization: Creating applications allows users to tailor the spreadsheet software to their
specific needs. By designing custom interfaces, adding buttons, menus, and dialog boxes, users
can create a user-friendly experience that aligns with their workflow and requirements.

3. Improved Functionality: Applications and macros extend the capabilities of spreadsheet software
beyond its built-in features. Users can develop custom functions, formulas, or procedures to
perform specialized calculations or implement unique business rules. This enhances the
functionality and analytical power of the spreadsheet.

4. Data Integration: Applications and macros enable the integration of data from external sources
or other software applications. Users can automate data import/export processes, connect to
databases, web services, or APIs, and synchronize data between different systems. This
facilitates data analysis, reporting, and decision-making.

5. Error Reduction: By creating applications with built-in validation and error-checking

mechanisms, users can minimize the risk of data entry errors or calculation mistakes.
Applications can perform data validation, range checks, input restrictions, and error handling,
ensuring data integrity and accuracy.

6. Reporting and Visualization: Applications and macros can generate customized reports, charts,
and visualizations from the data stored in the spreadsheet. Users can create interactive
dashboards, dynamic charts, and summary tables that provide insights and facilitate data-driven
decision-making.

7. Collaboration and Sharing: Applications can be designed for collaboration purposes, allowing
multiple users to work simultaneously on a shared spreadsheet. Macros can automate the
distribution of spreadsheet templates, generate reports for stakeholders, and enable seamless
sharing of data and analyses.

8. Scalability and Reusability: Applications and macros offer scalability by allowing users to build
modular and reusable components. Users can create libraries of functions or templates that can
be easily adapted or reused across different projects or spreadsheets, saving time and effort.

By creating applications in spreadsheets and utilizing macros, users can significantly enhance
productivity, streamline processes, improve data accuracy, and leverage the full potential of the
spreadsheet software. These capabilities contribute to efficient data analysis, reporting, and decision-
making, making spreadsheets a powerful tool for various business and analytical tasks.

PROCEDURE

1. In the Code group on the Developer tab, click Record Macro.

2. Optionally, enter a name for the macro in the Macro name box, enter a shortcut key in
the Shortcut key box, and a description in the Description box, and then click OK to start
recording.
3. Perform the actions you want to automate, such as entering boilerplate text or filling down a
column of data.

4. On the Developer tab, click Stop Recording.