Chapter 4- Spreadsheets

Chapter 4- Spreadsheets

1. Modelling

   • A representation of an entity
     • Imitates the real thing
   • Modelling Software
     • Software used for the purpose of constructing a model
     • Characteristics:
       • View the object in 2D or 3D
       • Change the viewing angles
       • Change the abstraction level
       • Move/resize objects
   • Variables
     • Are input data that can be changed within a model
   • Rules
     • Define how the model should behave
   • Why is a spreadsheet good for modelling?
     • Can enter variables
     • Formulae and Functions that perform calculations
     • Automatic Recalculation
     • Graphs
   • Simulations
     • used to predict the behaviour of an entity

2. Formuale

   • Arithmetic calculations
     • Plus
     • Minus
     • Multiply
     • Divide

3. Functions

   • Complex calculations represented by reserved words
     • SUM
     • AVERAGE

4. Definitions

   • Cell
     • Location on a worksheet to enter data
     • Formatting
       • Font Styles
       • Background
   • Row
     • Horizontal set of cells
       • Represented by a number
   • Column
     • Vertical set of cells
       • Represented by a letter
   • Ranges
     • Set of cells e.g. B6:B15
     • Can be named
   • Worksheet
     • Spreedsheet
   • Workbook
     • Set of worksheets
   • What-if Questions
     • an attempt to find out what is going to happen in the future

5. Relative Referencing

   • Where the cells move together

6. Absolute Referencing

   • $
   • Keeps the cell the same