Master XLOOKUP and VLOOKUP to replace fragile manual references with dynamic, self-updating formulas that save time and reduce errors.
If you are currently manually linking cells or constantly updating references when your data changes, you are doing things the hard way. Join David Ringstrom, CPA, in Introduction to Excel Lookup Formulas to learn how to turn the tide and let Excel do the heavy lifting for you. This course is designed to transition you from fragile, static spreadsheet methods to dynamic, robust data management using powerful lookup functions.
While VLOOKUP has long been the "champion" of Excel data retrieval, this course places a strong emphasis on the modern XLOOKUP function available in Microsoft 365, which offers a much more resilient experience. You will learn how to build formulas from scratch using the Insert Function dialog box, allowing you to understand arguments step-by-step. The presentation also covers legacy functions and alternative methods, ensuring you can handle any spreadsheet scenario you encounter. From basic construction to advanced troubleshooting, you will gain the skills to stop letting Excel push you around.
Key learning outcomes and topics covered in this course include:
Whether you are dealing with missing data, "ghost" spaces in your text, or expanding datasets, this course provides the troubleshooting techniques and best practices needed to create self-maintaining spreadsheets. By the end of this session, you will be equipped to write efficient formulas that update automatically, saving you time and ensuring data accuracy.
CPA, Author, Professional Excel Spreadsheet Trainer and Consultant
David H. Ringstrom, CPA, is the author of Microsoft 365 Excel for Dummies, and a nationally recognized instructor who has taught over 2,500 live webinars. His Excel courses are based on over 30 years of consulting and teaching experience. David’s catchphrase is “Either you work Excel, or it works you,” so he focuses on what he sees users don’t, but should know about Microsoft Excel. His goal is to empower you to use Excel more effectively. David has authored or co-authored 10 books, including Exploring Microsoft Excel's Hidden Treasures, QuickBooks Online for Dummies, and Idiot's Guide to Introductory Accounting.
This portal is provided as a training and development resource for City of Markham employees. Every course is delivered by a qualified subject matter expert or learning organization, is quantifiable in hours, and is verifiable — you receive a documented certificate of completion for every course you finish, stored on LearnFormula indefinitely.
If you hold a professional designation (for example in engineering, accounting, human resources, or law), courses may be counted as professionally relevant, verifiable learning activities toward your continuing professional development. Individual practitioners are responsible for confirming that an activity meets the requirements of their professional body. For questions about the City of Markham's training and development policies, please speak with your people leader or Human Resources.
