Mastering Excel 2007: Interface and Features

Posted on Feb 3, 2025 in Computers

Books and Worksheets in Excel

The archives of a spreadsheet are called books. A book is composed of one or more worksheets. In its simplest form, a spreadsheet is a grid of rows and columns where data can be saved and formulas applied. The utility and power of spreadsheets lie in their ability to perform calculations using the information contained in the worksheet. Spreadsheets have the enormous advantage that if some of the data changes, it is not necessary to redo the calculations, since the results are updated automatically.

Main Display of Excel 2007

When you start MS Excel 2007, it creates a new blank workbook. The new interface in version 2007 helps the user find the commands they need. The program commands are grouped into different tabs contained within the Ribbon.

  1. Microsoft Office Button: Groups basic commands to open, save, and print a file. This button is common to almost all applications of Microsoft Office 2007. It replaces the File menu in earlier versions of Office.
  2. Ribbon: Consists of tabs in which specific commands or actions are organized. The controls on each tab are further organized into several groups.
  3. Quick Access Toolbar: Contains a set of commands independent of the tab being displayed in the Ribbon.
  4. Name Box: Displays the reference or address of the active cell.
  5. Formula Bar: Displays the actual content of the active cell and allows modification.
  6. Active Cell: Indicates the selected cell where data is entered.
  7. Title Bar: Displays the name of the program and the workbook.
  8. Worksheet Tabs: Displays the names of the worksheets in a book. With one click you can switch to another sheet, or you can rename a sheet with a double-click.

Understanding the Ribbon in Excel 2007

The Ribbon is designed to help you quickly find the commands to complete your work. The Ribbon replaces the traditional menu of previous versions of Office. The commands are organized into logical groups, which are in turn organized into tabs. These tabs are related to one type of activity, such as working with formulas, inserting objects, or using a specific view.

Quick Access with Keyboard Shortcuts

Some people feel more comfortable and work faster using only the keyboard, leaving the mouse only for some minor actions. To facilitate this, almost all applications have key combinations that perform the same functions as many command buttons.

Understanding Split Buttons

In Microsoft Office 2007 applications, many buttons are divided into two sections. The first section shows an identification icon. If clicked with the mouse, the action is executed immediately. Beside the image is a small triangle indicating that there is a menu with more options related to that button.

Dialog Boxes in Excel

In some groups, a small diagonal arrow appears at the bottom right. This arrow is called the dialog box launcher. When pressed, you will get a dialog box with more detailed options for certain activities.

Customizing the Quick Access Toolbar

The Quick Access Toolbar is a customizable toolbar with commands independent of the Ribbon. It provides quick access to commands you use most often in a job. The default commands on the bar are: Save, Undo, Repeat, and Quick Print. It can be located in two places: next to the Microsoft Office button or below the Ribbon.