What is a Spreadsheet?
A spreadsheet is a software application used to store, organize, and analyze data in tabular format. It consists of a grid of rows and columns, forming individual cells where data (text, numbers, or formulas) is entered. MS Excel, LibreOffice Calc, and Google Sheets are popular spreadsheet programs.
Workbook vs Worksheet
A Workbook is the entire file (like a notebook), while a Worksheet is a single page/grid within that file. A workbook can contain multiple worksheets.
Rows and Columns
Rows run horizontally and are numbered (1, 2, 3...). Columns run vertically and are lettered (A, B, C...).
Cell Address (Cell Reference)
The intersection of a row and a column forms a cell. Each cell has a unique Cell Address formed by combining its column letter and row number (e.g., A1, B5, Z100).
| Type of Reference | Example | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Relative Reference | A1 | Changes when copied to another cell. E.g., copying A1 down one row makes it A2. |
| Absolute Reference | $A$1 | Remains constant when copied. The dollar sign ($) locks the column and row. |
| Mixed Reference | $A1 or A$1 | Either the row or the column is locked, but not both. |
Entering Data & Page Setup
Data can be entered simply by clicking a cell and typing. You can enter text (labels), numbers (values), or formulas (must start with an = sign).
Page Setup
Before printing, use Page Setup (Page Layout tab) to adjust Margins, Orientation (Portrait/Landscape), Size (A4, Letter), and Print Area (selecting specific cells to print).
Saving & Printing
Use Ctrl+S to save the workbook (.xlsx or .ods). Use Ctrl+P to print. You can choose to print the active sheet, the entire workbook, or a specific selection.