Spreadsheet

Spreadsheet

A spreadsheet is a file made of rows and columns that help sort data, arrange data efficiently, and calculate numerical data. What makes a spreadsheet software program unique is its ability to calculate values using mathematical formulas and the data in cells. A good example of a spreadsheet program is Microsoft Excel.

History

The concept of an electronic spreadsheet was outlined in the paper "Budgeting Models and System Simulation" by Richard Mattessich in 1961. The first digital spreadsheet software, VisiCalc, was developed by Dan Bricklin and Bob Frankston in 1979. The success of VisiCalc led to the creation of similar spreadsheet software like SuperCalc, Multiplan, and Lotus 1-2-3. The most widely used spreadsheet program today is Microsoft Excel.

Functionality

Spreadsheets are used for simple lists and complex numerical calculations. They can organize data into rows and columns and can be manipulated mathematically using both basic and complex arithmetic operations and functions. In addition, spreadsheets can be used to create graphs and charts of data.

Types of Spreadsheets

There are three types of spreadsheets: text/labels, numbers/values, and formulas. Text/labels are used to add context to the data. Numbers/values are the actual numerical data, and formulas are used for calculations.

Spreadsheet Software

The most common spreadsheet software is Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and Apple Numbers. These programs allow users to create and manipulate spreadsheets digitally.

See Also

• Microsoft Excel
• Google Sheets
• Apple Numbers
• VisiCalc
• SuperCalc
• Multiplan
• Lotus 1-2-3

References

Spreadsheet Resources
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