Student Guide M3

Student Guide
40571A
Microsoft Excel expert 2019
Module 3: Validating and auditing data
Validating and auditing data
Contents
Contents........................................2
Module overview...........................4
Description.................................4
Scenario.....................................5
Cornerstone................................5
Lesson 1: Validating data..............6
Overview....................................6
Warm-up.....................................6
Topic 1: Perform basic data validation 7
Set up data validation for cell(s) 7
Activity: Show me how..........11
Try-it: Perform basic data validation 11
Try-it 1...................................12
Try-it 2...................................12
Try-it 3...................................13
Topic 2: Remove duplicates.....14
Remove duplicates from a range of cells 14
Activity: Tell a story..............15
Try-it: Remove duplicates.....16
Try-it......................................16
Wrap-up....................................17
Lesson 2: Filling cells...................18
Overview..................................18
Warm-up...................................18
Topic 1: Use the Flash Fill feature19
Use the Fill command............19
Use the cursor.......................20
Use automatic Flash Fill........20
Activity: Show and tell...........21
Try-it: Use the Flash Fill feature21
Try-it 1...................................21
2
Try-it 2...................................22
Try-it 3...................................22
Topic 2: Set advanced options for fill series 23
Create a linear series using AutoFill 23
Create a linear series using the Fill command 23
Create a growth series using AutoFill 24
Create a growth series using the Fill command 25
Create a date series..............25
Activity: Tell a story..............26
Try-it: Set advanced options for fill series 27
Wrap-up....................................28
Lesson 3: Auditing formulas........30
Overview..................................30
Warm-up...................................30
Topic 1: Trace precedents and dependents 31
Trace precedent cells............31
Trace dependent cells...........32
Remove arrows.....................33
Activity: Discuss and learn....33
Try-it: Trace precedents and dependents 34
Topic 2: Use the Watch Window34
Add cells to the Watch Window35
Remove cells from the Watch Window 36
Activity: Discuss and learn....36
Try-it: Use the Watch Window36
Try-it 1...................................36
Try-it 2...................................37
Try-it 3...................................38
Wrap-up....................................38
Lesson 4: Checking and evaluating data 40
Overview..................................40
Warm-up...................................40
Topic 1: Work with error checking rules 41
Find Errors.............................41
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Error Types............................45
Activity: Pose a challenge.....46
Try-it: Work with error checking rules 47
Topic 2: Evaluate formulas.......48
Evaluate a formula................48
Activity: Think-pair-share......49
Try-it: Evaluate formulas.......50
Wrap-up....................................50
Glossary.......................................52
Cornerstone.................................53
Overview..................................53
Objectives.................................53
Duration...................................53
Instructions...............................53
Tasks........................................54
File 1: Cornerstone_members_starter.xlsx 54
File 2: Cornerstone_shipments_starter.xlsx 55
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Module overview
Description
Entering and maintaining complex data in Microsoft Excel 2019 workbooks
can be a challenge under the best of circumstances. When you add in factors
such as varying skill levels, distractions, fatigue, or stress, the opportunity
for error multiplies. Verifying data and checking formula results manually can
be a tedious and time-consuming process, even if you have someone to help
you.
This module includes learning activities that will help you use Excel to
confirm and expedite data entry and formula checks. You'll also learn to
quickly check for and resolve errors.
At the end of this module, you’ll work on the Cornerstone project to facilitate
worksheet entries, evaluate data and formulas, and resolve errors to provide
reliable data.
Lesson Learning objective Exam objective(s)

Validating Apply data validation settings and  2.2.2
data remove duplicates from a list.  2.2.5
Filling cells Use the Flash Fill feature and set  2.1.1
advanced options for fill series.  2.1.2
Auditing Trace precedents and dependents and  3.5.1

formulas monitor cells and formulas with the  3.5.2
Watch Window.
Checking Create error checking rules and  3.5.3
and evaluate formulas.  3.5.4
evaluating
data
Cornerston  Use the Flash Fill feature.  2.1.1
e: Auditing  Configure data validation.  2.2.2
CSA data  Remove duplicate records.  2.2.5
 Monitor cells and formulas by using  3.5.2
the Watch Window.  3.5.4
 Evaluate formulas.
Table 1: Objectives by lesson
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Scenario
Munson’s Pickles and Preserves Farm supports a local community supported
agriculture (CSA) project for community members to become “farm
members” and purchase shares of the produce to feed their families.
Each week they receive a box of fresh produce. They can take part in farm
events such as workdays, potlucks, and you-pick gardens to experience the
joy of harvesting their own food. You’ve received a workbook that details
produce distribution to members by member ID, states or provinces, and
location. The data has several errors; you need to fix those errors and
validate the data.
Cornerstone
After you’ve completed the lessons and try-its and navigated through several
scenarios, the Cornerstone project will test your ability to apply what you’ve
learned. In the Cornerstone, you’ll:
 Use the Flash Fill feature.
 Configure data validation.
 Remove duplicate records.
 Monitor cells and formulas by using the Watch Window.
 Evaluate formulas.
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Lesson 1: Validating data

Overview
At the end of this lesson, you’ll be able to apply data validation settings and
remove duplicates from a list.
Warm-up
Use these questions to find out what you already know about this lesson’s
topics:
1. By using the Data Validation command, you can provide worksheet
users with Select here to enter text. .
Select all that apply.
a. A warning message about their cell entry.
b. A list of values to choose from for the cell.
c. A message about the input they need to enter in the cell.
d. A choice of formulas.
2. To help ensure that a list does not have any repeated rows, you can use
the Select here to enter text. tool.
Fill in the blank space.
3. What are the styles of error messages available for data validation?
a. Stop
b. Warning
c. Caution
d. Information
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Topic 1: Perform basic data

validation
When multiple people are entering data in a worksheet, you’ll often get
different results for what should be the same data. It’s also likely that people
make typing errors when performing data entry. For example, if you have
multiple people entering employee data into a list in the Marketing
Department, there might be a few different entries in the Department
column, such as:
 Marketing
 Mktg.
 Marketing Dept.
 Mtkg.
 Mkt. Dept.
Inconsistent and incorrect entries will make it impossible to accurately sort,
filter, and summarize your data. In this example, if you needed to calculate
the total count of employees in each department, you would have five
different totals.
The Data Validation command in Excel provides a variety of ways for you
to not only restrict the entries in a cell but also to guide and inform the users
on requirements. This command also helps you find data that violates the
restrictions you set.
Set up data validation for cell(s)

On the Data tab of the ribbon, in the Data Tools group, when you select the
Data Validation command (not the drop-down list), a dialog box with three
tabs displays. The following screenshot highlights the Data Validation
command on the Data tab:
Figure 1: Data Validation command on the Data ribbon tab
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The following screenshot depicts the Data Validation dialog box with three
tabs—Settings, Input Message, and Error Alert:
Figure 2: Data Validation dialog box with tabs for Settings, Input
Message, and Error Alert
Settings tab
On the Settings tab, you set the criteria, or conditions and restrictions rules,
for the data that you want to allow in the selected cell or cells. Notice that
the default settings allow Any value in cells. In the Allow drop-down list,
you can select from:
 Whole Number, to restrict the cell to accept only whole numbers.
 Decimal, to restrict the cell to accept only decimal numbers.
 List, to pick data from a drop-down list.
 Date, to restrict the cell to accept only date entries.
 Time, to restrict the cell to accept only time entries.
 Text Length, to restrict the length of the text entered.
 Custom, for a custom formula.
The remaining options on the Settings tab change according to your choice
in the Allow drop-down list. Most options in the Allow drop-down list supply
options for Data, which is a list of comparison operators. For each of the
data options, Excel has appropriate cell-picker windows for Value,
Minimum, Maximum, Start date, End date, Start time, End time, and
so on.
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If you select List in the Allow drop-down list, Excel provides a cell-picker
window for the reference to the range of cells containing the list values. If
you select Custom in the Allow drop-down list, Excel has a cell-picker
window for the formula. The following screenshot depicts examples of cell-
picker windows.
Figure 3: Examples of cell-picker windows
Input Message tab

The next tab in the Data Validation dialog box is the Input Message tab.
This is where you configure the input message that displays when the user
selects a cell. Note that this is an optional setting. If you don’t want an input
message, clear the Show input message when cell is selected check
box. The following screenshot depicts the Input Message tab in the Data
Validation dialog box:
Figure 4: Input Message tab
Error Alert tab

The next tab in the Data Validation dialog box is the Error Alert tab. On
this tab, you can configure the options for the response from Excel when a
user enters data that does not meet the Settings criteria for valid data. This
is also an optional setting. If you do not want an error alert, clear the Show
error alert after invalid data is entered check box.
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On the Error Alert tab, you can select from the following error styles:
 Stop prevents users from entering invalid data.
 Warning warns users that they are entering invalid data, without
preventing it.
 Information informs users that they are entering invalid data, without
preventing it.
Validation circles
You might not want to completely prevent users from entering data in the
cells with data validation, because that could interrupt the workflow around
the data entry and impact productivity. By allowing users to enter data in a
cell, you have information for which you must follow up. Going back to the
example of multiple people entering employee data into a list in the
Marketing Department, it's still helpful if the entry is "Mtkg" and not blank.
You can identify cells in which users have entered invalid data by using
validation circles. To use validation circles:
1. On the Data tab, in the Data Tools group, select the Data Validation
drop-down list, and then select Circle Invalid Data to apply circles over
the cells that contain data that is against the validation rules you’ve set
for those cells.
2. In the Data Validation drop-down list, select Clear Validation Circles
to remove the validation circles from any cells on the worksheet.
You'll find that you can't anticipate all the possible errors that users make
during data entry. When you review the data, you might discover multiple
errors and then need to find and correct them all. For example, in a column
that lists employee hiring dates, some entries might be for the future! You
can apply data validation settings to all the cells in this column, including
those that already have data. In this example, the data validation settings
you need would be:
 Allow: Date
 Data: less than or equal to
 End date: =TODAY()
After you apply the data validation settings, use the Circle Invalid Data
command to find any cells that don't meet those criteria. As you fix the
invalid entries, Excel removes the validation circles when the entries meet
the validation criteria.
Additional information
For more information on using the Data Validation tool, go to:
Apply data validation to cells
For more information on data validation, go to: More on data
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validation
Video
To review the video on creating and managing drop-down
lists, go to: Create and manage drop-down lists
Did you know?

If you're creating a worksheet for others to use, you can
provide helpful guidance for the users on any cell or cells by
using only the Input Message of the Data Validation
dialog box. Simply leave Settings at Allow: Any value, and
for the Error Alert, deselect the checkbox for Show error
alert after invalid data is entered.
Activity: Show me how

In this activity, your teacher will demonstrate and guide you through
configuring data validation for specific cells on a worksheet.
Resources required
You’ll need the following resources for this activity:
 None
Activity instructions
Participate in the activity by following these instructions:
1. Observe the teacher demonstrate how to set up data validation options.
2. Ask the teacher clarifying questions. An example is: How can I provide
input messages?
Try-it: Perform basic data validation

In this leveled try-it activity, you'll use the methods and commands you
learned in this topic to configure data validation.
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Try-it 1
Resources
You’ll need the following resources for this try-it:
 Open L1_T1_try1_members_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning
Activity Resources folder.
Instructions
The following are the general tasks that you need to perform during this try-
it:
1. Set the following data validation on the column of zip codes, I5:I30:
o Validation Criteria: Text length equal to five characters
o Input Message Title: Zip Code
o Input Message: Enter 5-digit postal zip code.
o Error Alert Style: Warning
o Error Title: Zip Code Error
o Error message: Postal zip codes require 5 digits.
Note: You can customize the title and the input message to match postal
codes in your country/region.
2. Enter 3430 in cell I5, and then select Enter.
3. Observe the warning error message.
Try-it 2
Resources
Instructions
it:
1. Set the following data validation on the column of state abbreviations,
H5:H30:
o Validation Criteria: List with a source of =Input!$B$2:$B$9
o Input Message Title: State
o Input Message: Select a state from the drop-down list.
o Error Alert Style: Stop
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o Error Title: State Error

o Error message: That state is not on the list.
2. Enter WA in cell H5, and then select Enter.
3. Observe the stop error message.
Try-it 3
Resources
Instructions
it:
1. Set the following data validation on the column of cities, G5:G30:
o Validation Criteria: List with a source of =Input!$A$2:$A$14
o Input Message Title: City
o Input Message: Select a city from the drop-down list.
o Error Alert Style: Information
o Error Title: City Error
o Error message: That city is not on the list.
2. Enter Hotlanta in cell G8, and then select Enter.
3. Observe the information error message.
4. Set the following data validation on the column of Num: A5:A30:
o Validation Criteria: Whole numbers between 1 and 26
o Input Message Title: Number
o Input Message: Enter a number between 1 and 26.
o Error Alert Style: Warning
o Error Title: Number Error
o Error message: The number must be between 1 and 26.
5. Enter 30 in cell A5 and then select Enter.
6. Observe the warning error message.
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Topic 2: Remove duplicates

Sometimes users are in a hurry or simply don't realize that data already
exists in a cell. At other times, while trying to quickly enter similar entries,
they might copy and paste existing data that they then plan to replace with
different values. During the process, they might forget or miss entries. Excel
supplies tools to identify and remove duplicate values or records.
You should first identify and review duplicate values or records before you
remove them from your data. You can do this with filtering or conditional
formatting. These are skills you might have already learned in the Microsoft
Excel associate 2019 course.
Remove duplicates from a range of cells

When you're ready to remove duplicates, select the cells that contain those
duplicates. On the Data tab, in the Data Tools group, select the Remove
Duplicates command, which the following screenshot depicts:
Figure 5: Remove Duplicates command on the Data tab
In the Remove Duplicates dialog box, verify the correct selection status by
selecting or clearing the My data has headers check box. The list of
column names from your data is in a list box; by default, all are selected. To
change the selection status more quickly, you can choose from the Select
All or Unselect All options. When you select column names in the Columns
list, you're telling Excel what to evaluate as a duplicate record. Typically,
Excel considers records duplicates only if every column has the same value.
For example, you may have a list of members in which some people have the
same first and last names, but if any of the other columns are different, they
are not duplicates. In the following table, none of the records are complete
duplicates. However, if you wanted Excel to ignore the Join Date column
when considering if a record is a duplicate, you would not select the Join
Date column. Then, the first and second records would be considered
duplicates; Remove Duplicates would keep the first record with the Join
Date in 2010 and delete the second record with the Join Date in 2001.
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First Name Last Name City State Phone Join

Date
Linda Schmid Abilene KS 555- 1/1/201
1123 0
Linda Schmid Abilene KS 555- 1/1/200

1123 1
Linda Schmid Topeka KS 555- 1/1/201

1134 0
Table 2: Examples of non-duplicate complete records

The Remove Duplicates command always considers each row in a data set
as a record. If it finds duplicates, it’ll keep the first record and remove any
following records. Even if you don’t select all columns as you’re searching for
duplicates, Excel will remove the entire record of a duplicate.
For more information on identifying and removing duplicates,
go to: Find and remove duplicates
For more information on filtering for unique values or
removing duplicate values, go to: Filter for unique values or
remove duplicate values
Did you know?

You can use Remove Duplicates to quickly reduce a copy
of a column of repetitive data values to a list that you can
then use as the source for your Data Validation drop-down
list!
Activity: Tell a story

Multiple users have been copying and pasting records into a main list from
other lists, and over time, this has resulted in duplication. A team member
has found multiple instances of the same records in the list and has reviewed
those duplicate records to verify that they are not needed. They’ve asked
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you to remove the duplicate records. In this activity, your teacher will
demonstrate and guide you through the steps for removing duplicates.
Resources required
 Open L1_T2_act_produce_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning
1. Open the L1_T1_act_produce_starter.xlsx workbook and go to the
Summer worksheet.
2. Observe the teacher’s demonstrations and your own Excel window, and
follow any instructions given.
3. Be sure to save any changes to the file before moving on to the try-it.
Try-it: Remove duplicates

In this standalone try-it activity, you'll practice using the Remove
Duplicates command with one or more columns not selected and with all
columns selected.
Try-it
Resources
 L1_T2_try_members_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
1. Open L1_T2_try_members_starter.xlsx and go to the Members
worksheet.
2. Use the Remove Duplicates command to remove any duplicated
records in the list, instructing it to disregard the columns Num and State.
Note the information in the message box from Remove Duplicates.
Enter the number of removed records in cell N3.
3. Undo the Remove Duplicates operation to restore the removed records.
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4. Use the Remove Duplicates command to remove any duplicate records

in the list, instructing it to disregard the column Num in evaluating
duplicates. Note the information in the message box from Remove
Duplicates. Enter the number of removed records in cell N4.
5. Undo the Remove Duplicates operation to restore the removed records.
6. Use the Remove Duplicates command to remove any duplicate records
in the list. Note the information in the message box from Remove
Duplicates. Enter the number of removed records in cell N5.
Wrap-up
Use these questions to check what you learned in this lesson:
1. The available tabs for Data Validation settings are:
a. Error Alert
b. Settings
c. Format
d. Input Message
2. The Remove Duplicates tool considers each row in a data set as a
Select here to enter text. .
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Lesson 2: Filling cells

Overview
Why enter data yourself when you can fill cells automatically instead? In this
lesson you’ll learn how to use the Flash Fill feature, including setting
advanced options for a linear or growth fill series.
Warm-up
topics:
1. You can use the Fill command in the Editing group on the Home tab to:
Select the correct option.
a. Fill cells with underline formatting.
b. Fill a workbook with worksheets.
c. Fill cells with a series of values.
d. Fill a worksheet with a picture.
2. Which of the following features is Flash Fill a part of?
a. AutoFill
b. AutoFit
c. Filter
d. Advanced Filter
3. On which group on the Home tab can you find Flash Fill?
a. Number
b. Styles
c. Cells
d. Editing
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4. To fill data using a series from the ribbon commands, start by selecting
the Select here to enter text. button.
Topic 1: Use the Flash Fill feature

Using Flash Fill is a great way to save time and effort. If you completed
the Microsoft Excel associate 2019 course, you might remember using
AutoFill. You might already be using AutoFill regularly, because it’s such a
useful tool. Flash Fill is a feature of AutoFill.
You can use Flash Fill to extract data from existing data and combine
additional data with the extracted data. Be careful, as the results might not
always be what you were expecting! You could consider using Flash Fill
instead of features such as Text to Columns or functions such as CONCAT,
UPPER, LOWER, PROPER, LEFT, and RIGHT.
Use the Fill command

To use Flash Fill by starting with the Fill command:
1. Enter an example of the data you’d like to extract into a cell in the same
row as the data to be extracted. Make sure to include any added data you
want to combine with the extracted data.
2. Select the cells that you want to fill, including the cell(s) to use as a basis
for the rest of the cells.
3. On the Home tab, select the Fill drop-down list from the Editing group,
and then select Flash Fill, as the following screenshot depicts:
Figure 6: Fill drop-down list on the Home tab
Use the cursor

You also can use Flash Fill with a cursor. To do this:
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1. Enter an example of the data you’d like to extract into a cell in the same
row as the data to be extracted. Make sure to include any added data you
want to combine with the extracted data.
2. Select the cell(s) to use as a basis for the rest of the cells.
3. Position the cursor at the cell on the last row and column of the cells you
selected. The cursor will change to a small black cross.
4. Use your cursor to select the cells required.
5. Release the cursor to complete the action.
6. An AutoFill Options button displays in the corner of the filled data.
7. Select the button and then select Flash Fill.
Note: If the Flash Fill feature does not work, you might need to enable it.
For more information on enabling Flash Fill, go to: Enable
Flash Fill in Excel
Use automatic Flash Fill

Depending upon what you are entering into a workbook, if Excel detects a
pattern, it will automatically offer suggestions to complete the rest of the
column, which you can use or ignore. Imagine a column that contains a list of
your classmates’ full names from cell A2 through to A30. Cell A2 contains
Pablo Tirado and A3 contains Victor Ivanov. If you were to enter Tirado
into cell B2 and then enter Ivanov into cell B3, Excel will recognize the
pattern and prepopulate the rest of the cells through to B30. Select Enter to
fill the data automatically. A Flash Fill options button will display next to the
filled data, as the following screenshot displays, which you can select for
further options if you want.
Figure 7: Flash Fill options button
Note: If you were to enter Tirado and Ivanov in uppercase, the Flash Fill
feature would fill the remaining cells in uppercase, too This means that you
don’t need to use the UPPER function to change the case of the text. The
same applies for the PROPER and LOWER commands.
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Activity: Show and tell

In this activity, your teacher will demonstrate how to use Flash Fill by using
a list of names.
Resources required
 L2_T1_act_students.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity Resources
folder.
2. Be sure to save any changes to the file before moving on to the try-it.
Try-it: Use the Flash Fill feature

In this leveled try-it activity, you’ll extract values from existing data.
Alternatively, you’ll extract data from existing data with added text and
characters specifications.
Try-it 1
Use Flash Fill to extract part of the values in a column of cells.
Resources
 L2_T1_try1_students_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
1. In cells B2 to B26, use Flash Fill to extract the first initial of each
student's first name and then their full surname.
2. Save the workbook as the same name plus your initials.
Try-it 2
Use Flash Fill to extract data and add text.
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Resources
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
1. In cells D2 to D26, use Flash Fill to extract each student's last name,
followed by a comma and a space. Then add the initial of their first name;
for example, Pepin, A.
2. Sort the list into alphabetical order A to Z using the new data in column D.
Try-it 3
Resources
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
1. In cell D2 to D26, use Flash Fill to create a user name for each student
that is made up of their # number, first name, and first letter of the last
name, followed by an exclamation mark; for example, 1AlainP!, 2AzeemB!
2. Sort the list into alphabetical order Z to A by using the new data in
column D.
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Topic 2: Set advanced options for

fill series
You now know how useful the AutoFill feature is. Advanced fill options
enable you to have even more control over how Excel automatically fills data
in your worksheet.
Create a linear series using AutoFill

A linear series is data with a continual increase or decrease. For example, 1,
3, 5, 7, 9, 11 has a continuous increase of 2 between each number. The
series 20, 15, 5, 0, -5 has a continuous decrease of 5 between each number.
To create a linear series using AutoFill:
1. Enter at least the first two numbers in the sequence in adjacent cells, so
that Excel can detect the linear pattern to fill. For example, enter 5 in A1
and 9 in B1.
2. Select the cells to be sequentially increased or decreased; for example,
A1 and B1.
3. Position the cursor at the cell that is on the last row and column of the
selected cells. The cursor will change to a small black cross.
4. Use your cursor to select the cells required.
You could also:
2. Right-click or access the context menu and then select the cells required.
3. Release the cursor and select Linear trend.
Create a linear series using the Fill command

Use the Fill command on the Home tab if you want more control over how
Excel fills data in your worksheet. To do this:
1. Enter at least the first two numbers in the sequence in adjacent cells so
that Excel can detect the pattern to fill. You could also just enter the
starting number in one cell, if there is a steady increase or decrease.
2. Select the cell(s) to be sequentially increased or decreased, including the
cells you want Excel to fill.
3. On the Home tab, select Fill from the Editing group.
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4. Select Series. The Series dialog box will open.

5. Select Linear as the Type, if not already set.
6. Enter the Step value number that you wish to increase or decrease by,
as the following screenshot depicts. If you already entered the pattern in
the first couple of cells, select Trend instead.
Figure 8: Fill Series dialog box
7. Select either OK or Enter to complete the action, and then Excel will fill
the selected cells by using the step value you entered.
Create a growth series using AutoFill

A growth series is data that the AutoFill feature multiplies by a consistent
value that you configure. For example, the series 3, 9, 27, 81, 243, 729 has
been multiplied by 3 (the step value) based on the result of each
multiplication (the product). That is, 3 x 3 = 9,
9 x 3 = 27, and 27 x 3 = 81. A growth series is also known as an exponential
value. To create a growth series using AutoFill:
1. Enter at least the first two numbers in the sequence in adjacent cells so
that Excel can detect the growth pattern to fill. For example, enter 2 in A1
and 4 in B1.
2. Select the cells to be sequentially increased; for example, A1 and B1.
4. Select the cells required.
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You could also:

2. Right-click or access the context menu and select the cells required.
3. Release the cursor and select Growth trend.
Create a growth series using the Fill command

You can use the Fill command to control what data Excel fills in your
worksheet. To do this:
1. Enter the starting value in the first cell. (You can enter the first two cells if
you want to.)
2. Select the cells to be sequentially filled, including the starting cell(s).
3. From the Home tab, select Fill from the Editing group.
4. Select Series. The Series dialog box will open.
5. Select Growth as the Type.
6. Enter the Step value number that you wish to multiply by. If you have
already entered the pattern in the first couple of cells, you can select
Trend instead.
7. Select either OK or Enter to complete the action. The selected cells will be
filled using the step value you entered.
Create a date series

Instead of having to manually enter dates in a sequence in a worksheet, you
can use the Fill command to do it for you. You can also use AutoFill, but
using the Fill command enables you to control the dates that are entered.
For example, you can create a list for an entire year for every 14 days from
the start to the end of the year. To create a date series by using the Fill
command:
1. Enter the starting date in the first cell.
2. From the Home tab, select Fill from the Editing group.
26
3. Select Series. The Series dialog box displays, as the following

screenshot depicts:
Figure 9: Series dialog box
4. Select Rows or Columns from the Series in selections.

5. Select Date as the Type.
6. Enter the Step value number that you want to increase the date by; for
example, 14.
7. Enter the last date in the series in Stop value.
8. Select either OK or Enter to complete the action. The selected cells will be
filled using the step value you entered.
For more information on advanced options for fill series, go
to: Project values in a series
Activity: Tell a story

In this activity, your teacher will tell a story to help explain growth trends
and linear trends. They will then demonstrate how to create a linear series
and growth series.
Resources required
 Open a blank workbook or use any open workbook with a new worksheet.
27
1. Follow the story and ask questions if you need further clarification.
2. Follow any instructions your teacher gives you.
3. Imagine a scenario in which you shared details of your favorite TV series
with two people. Those two people shared this information with two
people each, and all those people shared it with two people each. How
many people will know about your favorite TV series after five levels in
the chain? Create a Growth Fill series to find out.
4. What if you told five people at the start? How many would know after 10
levels in the chain?
Try-it: Set advanced options for fill series

In this standalone try-it activity, you’ll create a date series for a full
year.
Resources
 L2_T2_try_shipments_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
it:
1. In cell A4, enter the first Thursday of the current year using the
mm/dd/yyyy format. Note: You may instead enter the standard short
date format that is used in your country/region.
2. Use the Fill command to fill column A with every Thursday until the end
of the current year.
28
Wrap-up
1. On a worksheet in cells A2:A50, you have the full names of people in
"Last Name, First Name" format. To put each person's first name into the
next column, you need to do the following:
Indicate the correct sequence by adding numbers 1-4 next to the
following items.
a. In cell B4, begin entering the first name of the name that is in cell A4.
- Select here to enter text.
b. Select the Enter key. - Select here to enter text.
c. In cell B3, enter the first name of the name that is in cell A3. -
Select here to enter text.
d. When Excel displays a preview of the list of first names, select Enter. -
2. In a Linear fill series, what does the Step value refer to?
a. The value by which to multiply each value in the series.
b. The value by which to divide each value in the series.
c. The difference between each number in the series.
d. The difference between the first number and the last number in the
series.
3. In a Growth fill series, what does the Step value refer to?
a. The value by which to multiply each value in the series.
b. The value by which to divide each value in the series.
c. The difference between each number in the series.
d. The difference between the first number and the last number in the
series.
29
4. Which of the following functions can you replace with Flash Fill?
a. UPPER
b. LEFT
c. VLOOKUP
d. CONCAT
30
Lesson 3: Auditing formulas

Overview
Have you ever wondered where you would be without help from the people
you interact with every day? Excel uses precedents and dependents to track
how cells affect each other. In this lesson, you’ll learn how to trace
precedents and dependents of cells and how to use the Watch Window to
keep track of cells in the same worksheet or other worksheets.
Warm-up
topics:
1. You can use formula auditing tools to:
a. Determine if a formula result is legal.
b. Identify why a formula is not working as expected.
c. Find specified text within a formula.
d. Insert functions into a formula.
2. What is a cell that affects the value of other cells known as?
a. A dependent
b. A precedent
c. A source
d. A circular reference
3. On which tab will you find Watch Window?
a. Page Layout
b. Formulas
c. Review
d. View
4. Which of the following statements is correct?
31
a. You can add watches from other workbooks while you are working in
another workbook, but only if the other workbooks are open.
b. You can add watches from other workbooks while you are working in
another workbook, even if the other workbooks are closed.
c. You can track a watch from another workbook if you have added the
watch from the workbook you are currently working in.
d. You can track a watch from another workbook if you have added the
watch from the workbook you are currently working in, but only if the
other workbook is open.
Topic 1: Trace precedents and

dependents
Have you ever found yourself struggling to work out what’s going on
with your data? Have there been errors that you haven’t been able to
detect? Well, you can use the Trace Precedents and Trace Dependents
commands in the Formula Auditing group to help. Using these commands
is especially helpful, because they display arrows on the screen to help you
trace which cells depend on other cells. An error in one cell can affect other
cells exponentially! (Remember that word from the earlier lesson?)
Trace precedent cells

When you trace precedent cells, Excel displays arrows to indicate which cells
affect the current value of the selected cell. To trace precedent cells:
1. Select the cell to you want to check.
2. Select the Formulas tab and then select Trace Precedents from the
Formula Auditing group, as the following screenshot depicts:
Figure 10: Formula Auditing group
3. Excel displays arrows on screen, pointing to the precedent cells. The color
of the arrow varies, depending on whether there is a problem with the
connection, as the following screenshot depicts:
32
Figure 11: Dependent and Precedent arrows
4. Select Precedent again to display the precedent of the precedent; do

this as many times as necessary. If you would prefer not to have arrows
displayed, you can select the Ctrl+[ keys to go to the precedent cell.
Repeat the process of selecting the Ctrl+[ keys to go to that cell’s
precedent.
If a precedent or dependent cell is in another worksheet or workbook, the
arrow will have a grid attached, as depicted in the following screenshot.
Double-click the dotted black line to open the Go To dialog box, then select
Special…,and then select the precedent cell. As an alternative, you can use
the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+[.
Figure 12: Precedent in another worksheet
Trace dependent cells

When you trace dependent cells, Excel displays arrows to indicate which
cells are affected by the current cell. To trace dependent cells:
1. Select the cell to you want to check.
2. Select the Formulas tab and then select Trace Dependents from the
Formula Auditing group.
3. Arrows display on the screen, pointing to the dependent cells. The color of
the arrow varies, depending on whether there is a problem with the
connection.
4. Select Trace Dependents again to display the dependent for that cell;
do this as many times as necessary. If you would prefer not to have
arrows displayed, you can select the Ctrl+] keys to go to the dependent
cell. Repeat the process of selecting the Ctrl+] keys to go to that cell’s
dependent cell; do this as many times as necessary.
Remove arrows
You can remove all the arrows in a worksheet if you want to or only the
precedent or dependent arrows. To remove arrows:
33
1. Select the Formulas tab, and then select Remove Arrows in the
Formula Auditing group, or
2. Select the Remove Arrows drop-down list, and then select Remove
Precedent Arrows or Remove Dependent Arrows.
For more information on tracing formulas, go to: Display the
relationships between formulas and cells
Activity: Discuss and learn

In this activity, your teacher will initiate a discussion on the ways in which
you’ll troubleshoot formulas for the precedents and dependents tools. The
workbook you’ll be working with does not contain errors, but you’ll have the
opportunity to experiment with the precedents and the dependents. Imagine
you’re a detective tracing the paths from cell to cell!
Resources required
 L3_T1_act_shipments.xlsx and L3_T1_members.xlsx in this lesson’s
Learning Activity Resources folder.
1. Follow the discussion.
3. Experiment with any cell that contains a formula.
34
Try-it: Trace precedents and dependents

In this standalone try-it activity, you’ll trace precedents and
dependents. Consider why there are red arrows on screen, indicating an
error. Can you fix the error that is causing the problem?
Resources
 L3_T1_try_CSA_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
1. Trace the precedents and dependents of cell G5.
2. Trace the precedents of cell L4.
3. Remove all arrows.
4. Edit the error in cell G5.
5. Trace the precedents and dependents of cell G5 and the precedents of
L4. The arrows should now be blue.
6. Leave the arrows on screen and compare your file with your neighbor. Are
they both the same?
7. Close and save the workbook as the same name plus your initials.
Topic 2: Use the Watch Window

The Watch Window keeps track of cell values that don’t easily display
on screen. Using the Watch Window, you can work on your data and track
the effect of your work on important cells in your workbook. That will save
you from having to scroll through your worksheets when you only want to
find out what's happening to specific cells. You could compare the Watch
Window to a neighborhood watch, except that you are watching data.
35
Add cells to the Watch Window

To add cell(s) to the Watch Window:
1. On the Formulas tab, select Watch Window in the Formula Auditing
group. The Watch Window dialog box displays, as the following
screenshot depicts:
Figure 13: Watch Window dialog box
2. Select Add Watch. The Add Watch dialog box displays, with the current
cell already entered, including the worksheet name. The following
screenshot displays the Add Watch dialog box:
Figure 14: Add Watch dialog box
3. Select the cell(s) you want to add directly in the worksheet or any other
open workbook. You can select the collapse button if you want to shrink
the dialog box, but it is not necessary.
4. Select Add.
5. Repeat steps 2 through 4 until you have added all the cells you want.
6. Close the dialog box when you no longer need it.
You can select Watch Window at any time to track the cells you have
added. However, when you want to track them, you must make sure that all
the workbooks that have cells in the Watch Window are open.
36
Remove cells from the Watch Window

To remove cells from the Watch Window:
1. Open the workbook that contains the watch that you want to delete.
2. On the Formulas tab, select Watch Window in the Formula Auditing
group.
3. Select the cell to remove from the list of watches.
4. Select Delete Watch.
5. Close the dialog box.
For more information on using the Watch Window, go to:
Watch a formula and its result by using the Watch Window
Activity: Discuss and learn

In this activity, your teacher will lead a discussion on how to use the Watch
Window. You’ll then add and remove watches.
Resources required
 L3_T2_act_CSA_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
1. Follow along with the discussion.
follow any instructions your teacher gives.
Try-it: Use the Watch Window

In this leveled try-it activity, you’ll display the Watch Window. You’ll
then either edit a precedent cell to note the effect on the watch or add and
edit a watch.
Try-it 1
Display the Watch Window and note the existing watch, edit a precedent
cell, and note the change in value.
37
Resources
 L3_T2_try1_CSA_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
1. Open the Watch Window.
2. Edit the cost of lettuce for June and July to 0.35.
3. Enter the watch value for G38 in cell J5 and change the cost for lettuce
back to 0.30.
4. Edit the retail cost for cherries in August to 1.97.
5. Enter the watch value for H38 in cell J8 and change the cost of cherries
back to 1.99.
Try-it 2
Display the Watch Window and add a watch from the same worksheet, edit
a precedent cell, and note the change in value.
Resources
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
2. Add a watch for the cell G38.
3. Edit the retail cost for cherries in August to 1.97.
4. Enter the watch value for H38 in cell J5 and undo the change you made
to cherries.
5. Edit the cost of cucumbers for July to 0.15.
6. Enter the watch value for G38 in cell J8 and change the cost of
cucumbers back to 0.10.
38
39
Try-it 3
Display the Watch Window. Add a watch from the same worksheet and a
watch from another worksheet, edit a precedent cell, and note the change in
value.
Resources
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
2. Select the August worksheet.
3. Add a watch for the cells E50 and F50 on the Summary worksheet.
4. Edit the retail cost for cherries on the August worksheet to 1.97.
5. Enter the watch value for Summary F50 in cell J5 on the August
worksheet and undo the change you made to cherries.
6. Edit the cost of cucumbers for July to 0.15.
7. Enter the watch value for Summary E50 in cell J5 on the July worksheet
and undo the changes you made to cucumbers.
Wrap-up
1. Which of the following keyboard shortcuts can you use to navigate to a
precedent or dependent cell?
a. Ctrl+[
b. Ctrl+(
c. Ctrl+]
d. Ctrl+)
40
2. When a cell has a precedent in another workbook, what is attached to the

arrow?
a. A blue arrowhead
b. A red arrowhead
c. A black grid
d. A black arrowhead
3. To keep track of important cells that don’t easily display while you’re
editing a worksheet, you can add a watch to the
.
4. To remove a watch from a worksheet, you need to follow these steps.
Indicate the correct sequence by adding numbers 1-4 next to the
following items and add an X next to the step that is not required.
a. Open the workbook. - Select here to enter text.
b. Select the cell that has been added as a watch. -
c. Select the watch to remove. - Select here to enter text.

d. Select Delete watch. - Select here to enter text.
e. Select Watch Window from the Formula Auditing group. -
41
Lesson 4: Checking and

evaluating data
Overview
In this lesson, you’ll continue to learn more about the Auditing Formulas
group on the Formulas tab. You’ll learn about error checking rules, types of
errors, and evaluating formulas.
Warm-up
topics:
1. When Excel detects a possible error in a cell, which of the following
indicators will the cell display?
a. A blue square in the corner
b. A red border
c. A blue border
d. A green triangle in the corner
2. If a cell has a ##### error code, what does it indicate?
a. The function uses an incorrect operator.
b. The cell has the wrong type of formatting applied.
c. The column is not wide enough to display the cell contents.
d. The cell contains a circular reference.
42
3. Which of the following commands does not belong to the Formula

Auditing group?
a. Calculation Options
b. Remove Arrows
c. Error Checking
d. Show Formulas
4. Which of the following commands can help fix errors in a worksheet?
a. Watch Window
b. Remove Arrows
c. Error Checking
d. Evaluate Formula
Topic 1: Work with error checking

rules
In this topic, you’ll learn about checking for errors in a workbook.
Sometimes, errors on a worksheet can be obvious and you can easily find
them. However, when you’re working with huge amounts of data, errors
might be a little more difficult to notice. Depending upon your Excel options,
errors might not even be marked!
For more information on error checking, go to: Detect errors
in formulas
Find Errors
There are many methods you can use to detect errors. If a cell contains an
error, it will usually be marked with a green triangle in the corner, unless
your Excel settings have changed. The green triangle is not always an error.
It might indicate an inconsistency that Excel has detected, even though the
formula is correct, and the value is exactly what you wanted.
43
Did you know?

You can choose to disable error checking and also change
the color that Excel uses to indicate errors! These options
are on the Formulas tab of Excel Options.
To investigate an error, one of the first things you might do is select any cell
in the worksheet you want to check, and then:
1. Select Error Checking on the Formulas tab in the Auditing Formulas
group. The Error Checking dialog box, which the following screenshot
displays, provides help on the first error Excel detects.
Figure 15: Error Checking dialog box
2. Select Help on this Error to open Microsoft Office Support if you want to
find out more about that specific type of error.
3. Select Show Calculation Steps to open the Evaluate Formula dialog
box.
4. Select Ignore Error if you want to ignore the error or, to edit the formula
yourself, select Edit in Formula Bar.
5. Select Previous or Next to go from one error to the next.
6. Select Options to open the Excel Options dialog box. You can also
select the File tab, select Options, and then select Formulas to open
the Excel Options dialog box, where you can check the settings for error
checking. The following screenshot depicts the Excel Options dialog box.
44
Figure 16: Formulas tab in the Excel Options dialog box
7. In the Error Checking section, you can choose to disable error checking
entirely by selecting the Enable background error checking check
box. From here, you can also change the default color to use to indicate
errors. This could be very helpful if you have color blindness or you just
don’t like green!
8. Select or clear any option for checking in the Error Checking Rules
section.
45
Another way to investigate errors is to:

1. Select Find & Select from the Editing group on the Home tab, and then
select Go To Special. You might also select Ctrl+G, and then select
Special. The Go To Special dialog box displays, as the following
screenshot depicts:
Figure 17: Go To Special dialog box
2. Select Formulas and then clear the Numbers, Text, and Logicals check
boxes.
3. Select either OK or Enter to close the dialog box. Any cells that contain an
error will have a different shading applied. This shading disappears when
you select any cell.
Another way to investigate errors is to select a specific cell to check and
perform one of the following steps:
 Select Trace Precedents or Trace Dependents to help trace cells that
are causing errors.
 Select the Error Checking drop-down list, and then select Trace Error.
 Select Evaluate Formula in the Formula Auditing group.
 Select the cell that has a green triangle in the corner, move your cursor
over the warning symbol that displays, select the drop-down list, and then
select any option on the submenu. The example in the following
screenshot depicts a #DIV/0! error, which means the formula is
attempting to divide by zero.
46
Figure 18: #DIV/0! error warning submenu
Did you know?

You can hide errors on a worksheet so that your data
displays better. To do so, in your workbook, use functions
such as IFERROR, ISNA, or IFNA. You can also use
conditional formatting. Only an expert in Excel would know
how to discover the truth!
For further information on hiding errors, go to: Hide error
values and error indicators in cells
Error Types
There are many types of errors that can occur in Excel. However, it is
important to note that sometimes an error result is okay and might be what
you’re expecting. For example, when you use an exact match for the range
lookup in a VLOOKUP function, and the result is #N/A, it is indicating that
the value you are searching for is not there, which might be what you want.
The following table provides a brief outline of error types.
Error Possible reason(s) for error

Code
######  The data is too wide for the cell width.
 One date has been subtracted from another date, and the
result is a negative number.
#DIV/0!  The number or cell reference has been divided by zero or a

blank cell or text.
47
Error Possible reason(s) for error

Code
#N/A  A required argument in a function has been omitted.
 The cell that contains the argument is blank or contains
the wrong type of entry.
#NAME?  A named range or function has been referenced that does

not exist.
 Text has been used in a formula without quotes around it.
 A named range or function has been misspelled.
 A colon has been omitted from a formula.
Note: Any text written in a formula that is not recognized by
Excel will result in the #NAME? error.
#NULL!  An intersection has been referred to that does not exist;

for example, a space has been used instead of a comma
(,).
#NUM!  Text or a blank cell has been used in a formula where a

number is required.
 The formula is too small or too large for Excel to handle.
#REF!  Cells required by a formula have been deleted.
#VALUE!  Text has been entered in a cell that requires a number.

 The wrong type of argument or operator has been used.
 A value is not available to the formula or function.
 AutoCorrect cannot correct the formula.
Activity: Pose a challenge

In this activity, your teacher will pose some questions regarding errors in a
workbook. You don’t need to correct the errors, but you need to identify the
different types of errors within the workbook.
Resources required
 L4_T1_act_members.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
48
follow any instructions given. There are two worksheets that have errors.
2. Consider these questions:
o Why are there green triangles in the corners of some cells?
o What if you would rather not have errors display in green?
o How can you find out what is causing errors?
o Can you turn off the error checking feature?
Try-it: Work with error checking rules

In this standalone try-it activity, you’ll match the error description with
the correct error code. You can work with your neighbor or a partner if you
want to.
Resources
 L4_T1_try_error_types_starter.docx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
1. In the first column of the table, read the description of the error.
2. In the second column of the table, enter the matching error code. A list of
codes has been provided.
49
Topic 2: Evaluate formulas

You can use the Evaluate Formula command to break down a function
by component. It's especially helpful if you’re trying to evaluate a nested
function or complex function. The Evaluate Formula command is not
always for checking for errors, though. Sometimes, you might just want to
understand what the function is doing. You could consider it a bit like getting
into Microsoft Excel's brain.
Evaluate a formula
The Evaluate Formula command won’t fix an error or edit a formula. It’ll
just help you understand what's going on with a formula. To evaluate a
formula, select the cell containing the formula to evaluate, and then:
1. Select Evaluate Formula from the Auditing Formulas group on the
Formulas tab.
Figure 19: Evaluate Formula dialog box
2. Select Evaluate to break down, or debug, the formula in the Evaluation

box. You can continue to select Evaluate from component to component
until Evaluate changes to Restart, at which point you can start the
evaluation again. The preceding screenshot depicts the underlining of the
component within the formula that is currently being evaluated. In this
case, the value in L29 does not exist in the table array in the VLOOKUP
function.
50
3. Select Step In to break down the result of underlined part of the formula
in the Evaluation box, which the following screenshot depicts:
Figure 20: Evaluate Formula dialog box Step In

4. Select Step Out to go back to the previous component or formula.
5. Select Close to return to your worksheet.
For more information on evaluating formulas, go to: Evaluate
a nested formula one step at a time
Activity: Think-pair-share
In this activity, you’ll try to explain to your neighbor the problem with a
formula in a worksheet. You can then use the Evaluate Formula command
to check if you were correct.
Resources required
 L4_T2_act_members_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
1. Examine the data in the worksheet and try to understand the problem
with any error that you find.
2. Describe the error to your neighbor.
3. Use the Evaluate Formula command to evaluate the function.
4. Correct the errors if possible. (Hint: For the event ID error, the member's
choice was 'Pick your own produce'.)
51
Try-it: Evaluate formulas

In this standalone try-it activity, you’ll use the Evaluate Formula
command on a complex formula in the sheet.
Resources
 L4_T2_try_members_starter.xlsx in this lesson’s Learning Activity
Resources folder.
Instructions
it:
1. Examine the data in the table.
2. Select any cell that contains an error and evaluate it.
3. Fix the error if possible.
Wrap-up
1. To step into a formula, what command would you use?
a. Trace precedents
b. Trace dependents
c. Evaluate Formula
d. Error checking
52
2. Which of the following keyboard shortcuts can you use to help locate
errors in a worksheet?
a. F3
b. F5
c. Ctrl+G
d. Ctrl+F
3. To change the color of the error indicator in a cell, which tab would you
select in the Excel Options dialog box?
a. Advanced
b. Data
c. Formulas
d. General
4. To help debug a formula, you can use the Select here to enter text.
Formula command.
Fill in the blank
53
Glossary
Audit Assess or inspect data.
Cell-picker A field window inside a dialog box with a collapse
window button that allows the user to collapse the dialog box,
thereby displaying more of the worksheet cells. These
windows indicate that users can directly select cells to
insert the cell references.
Criteria Set conditions to be checked in a function.
Dependent A cell or cells affected by the current cell.
Duplicate A repeated entry of data.
Evaluate Assess a formula.
Precedent A cell that affects the value of the current cell.
Validate A general reference used to help ensure that the
correct data is entered into cells in a worksheet.
Watch A window that can display values in cells that don’t

Window easily display while you are working in a workbook.
Table 3: Glossary terms and definitions
54
Cornerstone
Overview
In this Cornerstone, you’ll validate data by using Data Validation, Remove
Duplicates, and Flash Fill.
Objectives
The following table outlines the Cornerstone objectives and their
corresponding Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) exam objectives:
Validate data  2.2.2: Configure data validation
Remove  2.2.5: Remove duplicate records

duplicates
Use Flash Fill  2.1.1: Fill cells by using Flash Fill
Add a watch  3.5.2: Monitor cells and formulas using the Watch
Window
Evaluate formulas  3.5.4: Evaluate formulas
Table 4: Cornerstone objectives
Duration
50 minutes
Instructions
1. Complete the following tasks for each file.
2. When saving your file, add your name to the end of the filename; for
example, Members_Dwayne_Espino.xlsx. Follow your teacher’s
directions for where to save your files.
3. When you’re done with the Cornerstone, assess your completion and
enter the points you think you earned within the following task lists. You
can use the help of your teacher if required.
Tasks
55
You’ll work with two files in this Cornerstone. The following are the tasks you
need to do within each file:
File 1: Cornerstone_members_starter.xlsx
Task: Remove duplicates (2 points)
1. Open Cornerstone_members_starter.xlsx.
2. Remove any duplicates in the States listed in the Lists worksheet. (2
points) (Exam objective 2.2.5)
Points scored: Select here to enter text. /2
Task: Apply data validation (6 points)

1. Apply a validation rule for all of column H on the Members worksheet
that uses the Abbr. column on the Lists worksheet to ensure that only
states that have been validated can be entered in future. (2 points) (Exam
objective 2.2.2)
2. Clear the Data Validation from the cells H1 to H4. (2 points) (Exam
objective 2.2.2)
3. Circle invalid data on the Members worksheet. (1 point) (Exam objective
2.2.2)
4. Enter the comment Check the Ref ID for this member (or note if
you’re using Office 365) into the cell in column L containing the error on
the Members worksheet. (1 point)
Task: Edit validation error message (2 points)

1. Edit the existing validation rule on column L of the Members worksheet
so that the style is Stop instead of Warning. (1 point) (Exam objective
2.2.2)
2. Enter the error message Please enter a number from 0 to 6 only. (1
point) (Exam objective 2.2.2)
56
Task: Use Flash Fill (2 points)

1. Use Flash Fill to enter the Member Num, State, and ZIP code as one
string of text in column M of the Members worksheet for all members
listed. (2 points) (Exam objective 2.1.1)
2. Close and save the file as Members_plus your name.
FILE 1 TOTAL POINTS: Select here to enter text. / 12
File 2: Cornerstone_shipments_starter.xlsx
Task: Find errors (3 points)
1. Open Cornerstone_shipments_starter.xlsx.
2. Use any method to locate any errors on both worksheets within the
workbook. (1 point)
3. Edit the comment or note in cell A1 of the July Summary worksheet to
note how many errors you have found in the entire workbook. (2 points)
Task: Add a watch (2 points)

 Add a watch for cell H108 on the Shipments July worksheet and close
the Watch Window. (2 points) (Exam objective 3.5.2)
Task: Fix errors (3 points)

1. Use any formula auditing tool to help fix the errors you have found. (3
points) (Exam objective 3.5.4)
2. Close and save the file as Shipments_plus your name.
FILE 2 TOTAL POINTS: Select here to enter text. /8
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Student Guide M3

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Student Guide

Lesson Learning objective Exam objective(s)

Auditing Trace precedents and dependents and  3.5.1

Table 1: Objectives by lesson

Lesson 1: Validating data

Topic 1: Perform basic data

Set up data validation for cell(s)

Figure 1: Data Validation command on the Data ribbon tab

Figure 3: Examples of cell-picker windows

Input Message tab

Figure 4: Input Message tab

Error Alert tab

Did you know?

Activity: Show me how

Try-it: Perform basic data validation

o Error Title: State Error

Topic 2: Remove duplicates

Remove duplicates from a range of cells

Figure 5: Remove Duplicates command on the Data tab

First Name Last Name City State Phone Join

Linda Schmid Abilene KS 555- 1/1/200

Linda Schmid Topeka KS 555- 1/1/201

Table 2: Examples of non-duplicate complete records

Did you know?

Activity: Tell a story

Try-it: Remove duplicates

4. Use the Remove Duplicates command to remove any duplicate records

Lesson 2: Filling cells

Topic 1: Use the Flash Fill feature

Use the Fill command

Figure 6: Fill drop-down list on the Home tab

Use the cursor

Use automatic Flash Fill

Figure 7: Flash Fill options button

Activity: Show and tell

Try-it: Use the Flash Fill feature

Topic 2: Set advanced options for

Create a linear series using AutoFill

Create a linear series using the Fill command

4. Select Series. The Series dialog box will open.

Figure 8: Fill Series dialog box

Create a growth series using AutoFill

You could also:

Create a growth series using the Fill command

Create a date series

3. Select Series. The Series dialog box displays, as the following

Figure 9: Series dialog box

4. Select Rows or Columns from the Series in selections.

Activity: Tell a story

Try-it: Set advanced options for fill series

Lesson 3: Auditing formulas

Topic 1: Trace precedents and

Trace precedent cells

Figure 10: Formula Auditing group

Figure 11: Dependent and Precedent arrows

4. Select Precedent again to display the precedent of the precedent; do

Figure 12: Precedent in another worksheet

Trace dependent cells

Activity: Discuss and learn