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Novice

Can successfully navigate and save an Excel workbook.


OK with Data Entry tasks.
Novices can build formulas using: SUM, IF, AVERAGE, COUNT, ROUND

Intermediate
Comfortable building formulas to manipulate text and dates
Knows what a Pivot Table is and how to build one.
Knows what an add-in is and how to install one.
Understands and can use the AutoFilter feature.
Can record a macro and use it later.
Can successfully edit/modify simple recorded macros.
This category includes most users who claim to know Excel very well.
Intermediate Formulas: SUMIF, COUNTIF, VLOOKUP, CHOOSE, MID

Advanced
Knows what array formulas are and how to use them.
Can create and modify macros with or without the macro recorder.
Knows how to build a macro that can be triggered by events.
Familiar with most, if not all, of the functions in Excel.
Comfortable teaching or helping others with Excel.
Advanced Formulas: SUMPRODUCT, INDIRECT, INDEX, MATCH, OFFSET

Expert
Can build add-ins for distribution and widespread use.
If you can think it, they can build it with Excel.
Most likely, a disturbed individual who spends too much time thinking about
spreadsheets. :-)
Expert Formulas: A true expert knows the strengths & weaknesses of every single function,
and has probably had to build some new ones that were not available.

Guru
The true Excel elite.
Probably just a handful of them in the world.
If you are one, you know who you are.
If you're an Expert, you probably know their names.
From time to time, you might see one posting in a web forum
Related
How can someone learn Microsoft Excel at a beginner level, and how long will it take
to master it?

Learning Microsoft Excel at a beginner level is an achievable goal with the right
approach and dedication. Here are some steps from the team at excel.tv to help you get
started and an estimate of the time it may take to master Excel:

1. Set clear objectives: Define what you want to achieve with Excel. Identify
the specific skills or tasks you want to learn, such as creating basic formulas,
working with data tables, or building simple charts.
2. Start with foundational knowledge: Familiarize yourself with Excel's
interface, workbook structure, and basic functions. Learn how to navigate
worksheets, enter data, format cells, and save your work. Online tutorials,
YouTube videos, or introductory Excel courses can provide a solid
foundation.
3. Learn essential functions and formulas: Understand common functions
like SUM, AVERAGE, COUNT, and MAX/MIN. Practice creating simple
formulas to perform calculations. Focus on basic arithmetic operations,
referencing cells, and using functions for basic data manipulation.
4. Practice with sample datasets: Work with sample datasets or create your
own to practice applying formulas and functions. Experiment with sorting
and filtering data, performing calculations, and using basic formatting
options.
5. Explore data manipulation features: Learn how to use features like
AutoFill, AutoSum, and conditional formatting to enhance your
productivity. Practice manipulating data using sorting, filtering, and data
validation.
6. Understand basic data analysis: Learn how to create and interpret basic
charts, such as column charts, line charts, and pie charts. Use Excel's built-in
tools for data visualization and analysis.
7. Expand your knowledge with intermediate topics: Once you have a
grasp of the basics, move on to more intermediate topics. This may include
working with advanced functions (e.g., VLOOKUP, IF, SUMIF), pivot tables,
data validation, and advanced charting techniques.
8. Practice, practice, practice: Consistent practice is key to improving your
Excel skills. Set aside regular time to work on Excel projects, solve problems,
and explore different features. The more you practice, the more
comfortable and proficient you will become.

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