Learn how to handle cells, rows, and columns carefully for effective data input and estimation. Discover how to best utilize spreadsheet formulas, include notes, and avoid common errors while using spreadsheet templates.
Key Insights
- Cells serve as the basic input boxes in a spreadsheet, with rows forming the horizontal lines and columns forming the vertical lines. Each column should have a consistent purpose and format, and hidden rows or columns should be avoided as a safety measure.
- Spreadsheet formulas should be referenced directly from the original data source for accurate calculations. It's critical to leave the formulas in their cells for easy reference and recalculation in case any changes are required in the estimate.
- Adding a notes column is beneficial not only for the user but also for anyone reviewing the estimate as it helps define quantity takeoff items. When using spreadsheet templates, it's advisable to save them with a new name to prevent overriding the unprotected template.
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These are things to remember. Cells are boxes where we can input data. Rows are the horizontal lines of the cells and columns are the vertical lines of the cells.
Each column should have a consistent purpose and format. And always remember that there should never be any hidden rows or columns. This is a safety feature built into your process of estimating.
Make sure you do not include hidden rows or columns in your estimate. Spreadsheet formulas should utilize the original data source for calculations whenever possible. Do this instead of daisy-chaining any of the calculations.
Leave the formulas in their cells for reference and recalculating related change values. This is important in case any additional changes are required to be made inside your estimate. You want to make sure that change values are replicated or recalculated throughout the rest of the estimate.
Include a notes column. This is important not only for yourself but for anyone else that reviews your estimate. It'll help define your quantity takeoff items as needed.
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When using spreadsheet templates, first save as with a new name to prevent overriding the template if it's unprotected.
