Excel Data Filters: Quickly and Easily Sort and Filter Data

"Excel Data Filters: Quickly and Easily Sort and Filter Data" by Scott Hartshorn is a practical guide designed to help users efficiently sort and filter data using Microsoft Excel. Hartshorn’s book aims to make these fundamental yet powerful features accessible to both novice and experienced Excel users, enabling them to manage large data sets with ease and precision.

The book begins with an introduction to the importance of data filtering and sorting in Excel. Hartshorn emphasises that these features are essential for analysing and organising data effectively. By mastering sorting and filtering, users can quickly find specific information within large datasets, identify trends, and make informed decisions based on their analysis.

Hartshorn starts with the basics of sorting data in Excel. He explains how to sort data in ascending and descending order, and how to sort by one or multiple columns. The book covers different types of data—such as text, numbers, and dates—and how Excel handles sorting for each type. Hartshorn provides step-by-step instructions and examples, ensuring that readers can follow along and apply these techniques to their own data.

Moving beyond basic sorting, the book delves into more advanced sorting options. Hartshorn discusses custom sorting, which allows users to define their own sort order, such as sorting by specific categories or creating a custom list. This is particularly useful for sorting data that does not follow a standard alphabetical or numerical order. The author also covers how to sort by cell colour, font colour, and conditional formatting icons, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of Excel’s sorting capabilities.

Hartshorn then shifts focus to filtering data. He explains how to use Excel’s AutoFilter feature to display only the rows that meet certain criteria. The book covers basic filtering techniques, such as filtering by text, numbers, and dates, and explains how to apply multiple filters simultaneously. Hartshorn’s clear instructions and practical examples make it easy for readers to grasp these concepts and apply them to their own datasets.

For users looking to take their filtering skills to the next level, Hartshorn explores advanced filtering techniques. He introduces the concept of custom filters, which allow users to create more complex criteria for filtering data. The book also covers how to use Excel’s advanced filter feature to extract unique records, filter data based on formulas, and create complex filter criteria using AND and OR operators.

Throughout the book, Hartshorn includes practical examples and real-world scenarios that illustrate the application of sorting and filtering techniques. These examples help readers understand how to use these features to solve common data analysis problems, such as identifying top-performing products, isolating outliers, and segmenting data for targeted analysis.

Hartshorn shares numerous tips and best practices for using Excel’s sorting and filtering features effectively. He advises on how to prepare data for sorting and filtering, such as removing duplicates, ensuring data consistency, and using proper data formats. Additionally, the book highlights common pitfalls to avoid, such as accidental data reordering and incorrect filter application.

"Excel Data Filters: Quickly and Easily Sort and Filter Data" by Scott Hartshorn is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their data management skills in Excel. The book’s clear explanations, step-by-step instructions, and practical examples make it accessible to users of all levels. By providing a thorough understanding of both basic and advanced sorting and filtering techniques, Hartshorn empowers readers to efficiently manage and analyse their data, leading to more informed decision-making and better insights. Whether for personal use or professional development, this book is an essential guide for mastering data filters in Excel.