Running Microsoft Excel 2000 (Running)

It doesn't matter whether you go straight through from beginning to end or just keep it on hand to use for reference, this book's smart, no-nonsense prose will cut to the heart of your spreadsheet problems and get you the solutions you need. Beyond the basics, it covers creating and using worksheets, analyzing data, sharing files with other users and applications, and programming with macros and Visual Basic--everything you'll need until the next upgrade.

The illustrations are good, if a little sparse, but between the clear writing and your own computer monitor, you should be able to tackle every technique in the book. If you use spreadsheets every day, or think you probably should, Running Microsoft Excel 2000 is a must. --Rob Lightner

The book has lots of text, but it needs more examples and more pictures; I can't really grasp a particular subject on Excel, if there's no picture to show what it's supposed to look like on screen. Some of the subjects aren't explained fully; these areas need more explanations, examples and pictures.

The book gets four stars, because I did learn some things I've never learned before; also, the book's layout is excellent.

Like the one of the reviewers below, I suggest you get the "Microsoft Excel 2000 Learning Kit". The kit contains the "Running Microsoft Excel 2000" book, as well as a "Microsoft Excel 2000 Step by Step Interactive" software. The software in the kit is excellent!


BETTER DEAL   June 9, 2000
 4 out of 7 found this review helpful

I would recommend buying the package (step-by-step interactive cd + this book = $30 cost)


Very complete coverage of Excel   June 8, 2000
 10 out of 11 found this review helpful

Running Excel 2000 provides a very complete look at using Excel in most day to day situations. The general usage information is well structured and each topic is covered in detail.

For me the real value in this book comes from the section on analyzing data. The author discusses the worksheet functions but then delves into common analysis situations. Their coverage of financial analysis discusses all of the different financial functions and how to use each of them. The statistical analysis section talks about each of the different distributions supported and when each should be used. Finally they present a what-if analysis section that shows how to use Excel's solver and scenario manager.

The book even touches on Visual Basic, but only enough to get your feet wet with Excel's macros.

All in all a very good book.. much more than I was expecting from a general "how to use Excel" book.


Great Detail!   April 20, 2000
 3 out of 5 found this review helpful

This book was very helpful to learn advanced formatting techniques, straighten out formulas and other spreadsheet techniques. It was only difficult to follow the macros directions. I would suggest purchasing a beginning book just on that for those with no experience in VBA, because if you're a beginner, like me, then you will probably get frustrated. Other than that, I found the book to be thorough, clear and concise.


A solid reference on Excel 2000!   March 25, 2000
 4 out of 4 found this review helpful

This book is a solid reference and guidance to Excel 2000 users. The authors have clear thoughts through the book, their instructions are clear and simple. It resolves most of the puzzles and questions you have, while introducing new functions. Seems like, it is designed for experienced Excel users. If you are new to Excel, you'd better read "Excel 200, Step by Step" instead. Strongly recommended! Will not waste your time and money.