Glossary of Spreadsheet Apps. Technical Terms and Acronyms

Important Links to Related Pages

1.      Return to Explore the 32 Category Master List of Productivity Software Applications

2.      See our Side-by-Side Comparison of Spreadsheet Applications

3.      Return to the Spreadsheet Applications Category List

4.      Scan Through the List of Spreadsheet Applications FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Cell

The basic unit of a spreadsheet where data is entered. Cells are identified by their column letter and row number (e.g., A1).

Formula

A mathematical expression used to calculate values in a spreadsheet. Starts with an equals sign (e.g., =SUM(A1:A5)).

Function

A predefined formula built into the spreadsheet tool. Common functions include SUM(), AVERAGE(), IF(), and VLOOKUP().

Pivot Table

A data summarization tool used to sort, reorganize, group, count, or average data stored in a spreadsheet.

Macro

A series of automated commands and functions stored to execute tasks quickly. Common in Excel for repetitive tasks.

Conditional Formatting

A feature that changes the appearance of a cell based on specific rules (e.g., turning a cell red if the value is below a threshold).

Data Validation

A feature that limits the type of data that can be entered into a cell, ensuring accuracy and consistency.

CSV (Comma-Separated Values)

A common file format used to store tabular data in plain text. Compatible with most spreadsheet applications.

Workbook

A file that contains one or more worksheets (individual spreadsheet pages).

Worksheet

A single spreadsheet within a workbook. Users can create multiple worksheets for different data sets.

Freeze Panes

Allows a specific row or column to remain visible when scrolling through a spreadsheet.

Lookup Function

Used to search for a value in a table and return a related value. Popular examples: VLOOKUP, HLOOKUP, and XLOOKUP.

Chart/Graph

A visual representation of data, such as bar charts, line graphs, and pie charts, often created from spreadsheet data.

Cloud Sync

The automatic saving and syncing of your spreadsheet files to the cloud, enabling access across multiple devices.

Collaboration Tools

Features that allow multiple users to view and edit a spreadsheet in real time, often with comments or change tracking.

Important Links to Related Pages

1.      Return to Explore the 32 Category Master List of Productivity Software Applications

2.      See our Side-by-Side Comparison of Spreadsheet Applications

3.      Return to the Spreadsheet Applications Category List

4.      Scan Through the List of Spreadsheet Applications FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)