Susan Harkins

Entering data into a worksheet can be time-consuming, and mistakes often find their way in — but with the right tools, both speed and accuracy can be improved. Here’s a look at several Excel features that facilitate data entry.

Don’t let selection woes get in the way of formatting just the numbers and bullets in a list. Here are two simple (but non-intuitive) ways to handle the task.

A missing value can lead to confusion by returning error values. But a properly used Nz() function can turn an error message into an understandable and expected value.

Use Excel’s GoTo feature (F5) to access out-of-the-way data — and then use the same feature to return to your starting point.

Using Tab to indent the first line of a paragraph in a Word document is inefficient and unnecessary. By setting a simple option, you can skip Tab and go right to typing text.

If you need a visual clue to hype a worksheet, use Excel’s Conditional Formatting feature to help values stand out.

Excel doesn’t have a built-in AVERAGEIF() function, but you can still average values, conditionally.

Deciding which font to use might seem like a simple design issue. However, studies show that serif and san serif each improves reading skills in specific media.

A client is planning on flying for an upcoming trip, and you know he may not have time to check the TSA’s guidelines on traveling with a laptop. Be a good little elf and prepare your client for what he can expect by telling him these seven helpful rules.

Use this Excel formula to easily return the last item from any list.

Animate callouts on a PowerPoint slide to display optional information with just a quick click.

Word can’t automatically produce a numbered list that counts down instead of up. But with the help of a bookmark and some fields, you can work around that limitation.