How to use the Excel 2013 Quick Analysis?

It used to take a bit of work to analyze data using Excel, but now it only takes a few steps.  You can instantly create different types of charts, including line and column charts, or sparklines.  You can also apply a table style, create PivotTables, quickly insert totals, and apply conditional formatting.

If you are not sure which analysis option to use, below is a quick overview.

Formatting

This function lets you highlight parts of your data by adding data bars and colors.  This lets you quickly see high and low values, or other things.

Charts

Excel will recommend different charts, it is based on the type of data you have selected.  If you do not see the chart you want, click More Charts.

Totals

This function lets you calculate the numbers in columns and rows.  For example, Sum inserts a total that grows as you add items to your data.  Click the little black arrows on the right and left to see more additional options.

Tables

Tables can make earlier to filter, sort and summarize your data.

Sparklines

Sparklines provide a quick way to see the trends.