Excel · Demonstration article
A simple checklist for cleaner spreadsheets
Start with consistent headings, clear inputs, and a few useful checks.
A useful spreadsheet starts with a clear structure. This demonstration introduces a small checklist you can adapt to a practice file. ## Give every column a purpose Use one header row. Keep dates, descriptions, and amounts in separate columns. Avoid using merged cells inside a data table because they make sorting and filtering harder. ## Keep the original Save an untouched copy before cleaning. Work on a duplicate and record the changes you make. This helps you check unexpected results later. ## Check consistency - Use one date format throughout the table. - Look for blank required fields. - Review possible duplicates before deleting anything. - Explain units in the column headings. ## Review before sharing Compare a few rows against the original. Remove confidential details from any public practice file. This is an introductory example, not a validated procedure for an organization's reporting system.