The importance of removing duplicate data

It seems like in today's digital age, we are constantly collecting and storing vast amounts of data in various formats such as spreadsheets, databases, and tables.

In IS101, chapter 5.9.3 Table Customization video, I learned how to remove duplicate information from my tables.  Doing so is essential for maintaining data accuracy and quality, plus it saves time.  Duplicate data refers to multiple entries of the same data in a dataset.  This can be problematic for lots of reasons and can negatively impact data analysis.

In my opinion, one of the primary reasons for removing duplicate information from your tables and spreadsheets is to maintain data accuracy.  I remember one time, I kept scratching my head thinking why are the calculations wrong with my monthly budget worksheet and I then found the culprit, a duplicate data entry that was entered when I imported data from a different application. I don't have to tell you that I wasted time trying to sort through data and trying to identify duplicates and YES! I deleted them manually.  

I now audit my datasets to identify and remove duplicate information.  Another lesson learned!

The most used shortcuts in Excel

The mighty F4 they say is the most used shortcuts in Excel.

I was blown away when I learned from 5.7.1 and 5.7.2 in IS101 Microsoft Excel, that adding dollar signs in formula references can make them absolute, relative or mixed.  When you are not editing a formula, use F4 to repeat the last command. I mean, you perform a certain step, such as inserting a row in a spreadsheet, you can swiftly repeat this step by using the F4 key.  If, immediately after inserting the row, you realize that you meant to insert two rows, not just one.  Instead of re-executing the keystrokes that you used to insert the row the first time, simply press F4 (repeat last command). Viola!

I specially liked the fact I can cycle the type of cell reference: 1) in the relative reference (A1)  2) absolute reference ($A$1)  3) mixed references (A$1, $A$1) to switch between.  

So much to learn so little time.

Best party time of the year

Spring break is here!  I have out of town guests and I am suppose to show them Vegas killer night clubs, bikini-filled pools, and all of the boozy libations to get into the festive spirit but I am at home doing some adulting stuff like laundry and not to mention, IS101 homework. 😉

I guess I have 'been there done that 'as they say.  I am not missing anything at all.  Just living in a party capital of the world. LOL!

I was debating whether I should spend time studying or just relax this week. Then I thought about my next exam. I am behind in watching my LabSims for Chapter 5-Microsoft Excel.  I am actually interested in learning more about Excel that I did not realize it would make spreadsheets easier.  Imagine all those times I did some spreadsheets for my personal budgeting and had to do my cell formatting one at a time and getting frustrated because it was taking so long and get irritated because I would mess it up and do it all over again.

I have noticed that my spring 'break' days are not breaks at all.  I really have been studying and doing homework nonstop as if it were a normal school day.

So, it really defeats the purpose of it being a "break" and turns it into more of a study hall. 😒

Read the directions closely

I thought that I was well-prepared!  

I experience some level of anxiety before any test, it never fails.  I'm the worst!  When it comes to test taking, even if I studied well and know the material, I feel some stress and I know it interferes with my performance on tests.

I can tell you this, while taking your test if you go blank, skip and go to the next one.  Read the test directions closely- when you first receive the test, take a moment to read over the directions.  I did not read it and fumbled during the tests. Don't be like me! 😁

Oh and remember to breathe!