How well do you know PivotTables?
Q: I was recently asked by a large client if I considered myself an Excel PivotTable expert, and I wasn’t sure how to respond. I have used PivotTables extensively, but by definition, it is difficult for anyone to know what they don’t know—if that comment makes sense. Is there some way for me to self-assess my PivotTable skills?
A: I am not aware of any official PivotTable accreditations, but just for you, I created the questionnaire in Exhibit 1 to help assess your knowledge of Excel PivotTables.
Scoring. If you answered “Yes” to 15 or more questions, I would label you a PivotTable Expert; 10 to 14 “Yes” responses would qualify you as an Advanced PivotTable User; and five to nine “Yes” responses would position you as an Intermediate PivotTable User. Please keep in mind that this test is not official; it’s just my opinion.
J. Carlton Collins (carlton@asaresearch.com) is a technology consultant, CPE instructor, and a JofA contributing editor.
Note: Instructions for Microsoft Office in “Technology Q&A” refer to the 2013, 2010, and 2007 versions, unless otherwise specified.
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