Data table in Excel: how to create one-variable and two-variable tables

This tutorial demonstrates how to leverage Excel's data tables for powerful What-If analysis. Learn to build one-variable and two-variable data tables to visualize the impact of input changes on your formulas, and discover how to analyze multiple formulas simultaneously.

You've constructed a complex formula reliant on multiple variables and need to understand how altering these inputs affects the results. Instead of individually testing each variable, create a What-If analysis data table and instantly review all potential outcomes!

- Excel Data Tables

• Creating One-Variable Data Tables
• Building Two-Variable Data Tables
• Analyzing Multiple Formulas with Data Tables
• Key Considerations for Excel Data Tables
• Deleting a Data Table
• Modifying Data Table Results
• Manual Recalculation of Data Tables

Understanding Excel Data Tables

In Microsoft Excel, a data table is a What-If Analysis tool enabling you to experiment with different formula input values and observe their effect on the output.

Data tables are particularly valuable when a formula depends on multiple values, allowing you to explore various input combinations and compare the results efficiently.

Excel supports one-variable and two-variable data tables. While limited to a maximum of two input cells, these tables allow you to test numerous variable values.

Note: A data table differs from an Excel table, designed for managing related data. For information on creating and formatting standard Excel tables, refer to relevant tutorials.

Creating One-Variable Data Tables in Excel

A one-variable data table in Excel lets you test a range of values for a single input cell and see how these values influence a formula's result.

Let's illustrate with an example: Imagine calculating compound interest with a 5% monthly rate. Your compound interest calculator includes:

• Cell B8: The FV formula calculating the closing balance.
• Cell B2: The variable to test (initial investment).

To analyze the 5-year savings based on initial investments from $1,000 to $6,000, follow these steps:

1. Input variable values in a column (e.g., D3:D8) or row, leaving space for results. We'll use a column-oriented table.
2. In the cell to the right and above the variable values (E2), enter the formula =B8 (linking to your original formula).
3. Select the data table range (D2:E8).
4. Navigate to the Data tab > What-If Analysis > Data Table…
5. In the Data Table dialog, select the variable cell (B2) as the Column Input cell.
6. Click OK. Excel populates the empty cells with results.
7. Format the results (e.g., Currency).

Your one-variable data table now displays potential balances, aiding in optimal deposit selection.

Row-Oriented Data Tables: For a horizontal layout, input variable values in a row, place the formula to the left and below, and specify the input cell in the Row input cell box of the Data Table dialog.

Building Two-Variable Data Tables in Excel

A two-variable data table analyzes how different combinations of two sets of variable values affect a formula's output. It demonstrates how changing two input values of the same formula alters the result.

Using the compound interest example, let's examine the impact of initial investment and the number of years on the balance:

1. Link a cell (E2) to your original FV formula (=B8).
2. Input one set of values (investment) below the formula (E3:E8).
3. Input the other set (years) to the right of the formula (F2:H2).
4. Select the entire data table range (E2:H8).
5. Create a data table, specifying the Years cell (B6) as the Row input cell and the Investment cell (B3) as the Column input cell.
6. Click OK. Format as needed.

The resulting table shows the effects of varying investment and years on the final balance.

Analyzing Multiple Formulas with Data Tables

To evaluate multiple formulas simultaneously, add them to your data table: to the right for column-oriented tables, below for row-oriented tables. All formulas must reference the same input cell(s).

Key Considerations for Excel Data Tables

1. Input cells must reside on the same sheet as the data table.
2. Excel uses the TABLE function (an array formula) to calculate results. You cannot edit individual cells within the data table's results range.
3. To improve performance with large data tables, consider disabling automatic recalculations for data tables only.

Deleting and Modifying Data Tables

To delete a data table, select the entire range and press Delete. To modify results, select the results cells, delete the TABLE formula, enter your values, and press Ctrl Enter.

Manual Recalculation of Data Tables

To manually recalculate a data table, select its results cells and press F9. You can disable automatic recalculation for data tables via Formulas > Calculation Options > Automatic Except Data Tables.

This comprehensive guide empowers you to effectively utilize Excel data tables for insightful What-If analysis.

The above is the detailed content of Data table in Excel: how to create one-variable and two-variable tables. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!