How to avoid the most common spreadsheet errors

Although working in Excel doesn’t pose major difficulties when doing the basics a few common spreadsheet errors do slip in from time to time. Most of these spreadsheet errors can be avoided.

A few tips are provided below to help you identify and avoid the most common spreadsheet errors.

Adding rows and columns

Oftentimes rows or columns are added, but the values are not reflected in the range of functions such as =SUM. Double check when you have added a row or column at the end of the range. If it is not picked up by the function then copy the function from the previous cell, column or row and use the Paste Special command where you select Formula or you where select ALL to ensure that the formula also applies to the added row, cell or column. To prevent the hassle simply make sure that when you add a row or column that it is included in the range name.

What IF saving error

Oftentimes we forget to save a spreadsheet and then lose the changes. The opposite can also be true. You may want to open a worksheet to work with What IF scenarios and then make some changes in the process. It will be easy to override the existing worksheet. A good practice to follow is to always rename a worksheet when you open it to make changes. Close the old worksheet immediately before doing any more work. It has happened that a person renames a worksheet, but then works in two worksheets without realizing it. The end result is a total mess.

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