The database capabilities of Excel are very powerful. In fact, not only can Excel be used to create a simple searchable database, it also can be used to create a proper relational database.

Tips This article applies to Microsoft Excel 2007, 2010, and Office 365. View the videos listed in the Resources section for more ideas on using Excel's database functions.

PivotTables are a game-changer when it comes to analyzing lightweight databases in Excel. They offer a flexible way to summarize, analyze, and explore data without complex formulas and external tools.

Use INDEX and MATCH for simple database queries in Excel The bigger your spreadsheet, the more you need these, which you can combine with SUM, AVERAGE, and MAX to refine your searches.

While Excel is renowned for its versatility in calculations and data visualization, it can also do the job just fine as a database. Small businesses, non-profits, and even departments within ...

Excel tables have many benefits that regular spreadsheets lack. The biggest is the option to use data from multiple tables to create queries and reports.