Author: Linh Le
Contributor: Nicholas Ortiz
Are you drowning in a sea of data, unsure of where to start your analysis? If so, you’re not alone. Many find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of data available to them. That is why EC Data University is here to equip you with the tools you need to navigate this ocean of data. In our latest tutorial series, we delve into the world of pivot tables, a game-changer in the realm of data analysis.
Why Pivot Tables?
Pivot tables, a feature readily available in Microsoft Excel, allow you to transform raw data into actionable insights with just a few clicks. Pivot tables provide a streamlined way to organize and summarize data, making complex datasets more manageable. Pivot tables can help you gain deeper insights into your information quickly and effortlessly.
Dive into the Core Concepts with EC Data University
In our video tutorials, we walk you through everything you need to know about pivot tables, from the basics to more advanced techniques. Our videos also provide a hands-on learning experience, allowing you to download our sample data file to follow along with the tutorials. By practicing with real data, you’ll solidify your understanding of pivot table concepts and build confidence in your data analysis skills.
- FD-1. Demonstrates basic data literacy skills.
- FD-6. Is knowledgeable about data analysis methods, their strengths and limitations, and their use in developing data products to meet the needs of intended users, including how to use data analysis and presentation techniques to portray data for historically underserved groups appropriately.
- DC-2. Demonstrates the ability to analyze and use data to develop the state performance plan and annual performance report (SPP/APR).
- DC-11. Demonstrates the ability to effectively communicate data to policymakers, OSEP, the general public, and other stakeholders through presentations, websites, reports, etc.
Learn about DaSy’s Data Leadership Competencies.
Learning Objectives
Whether you are brand new to using pivot tables or you have some basic skills upon which you want to build, this series is for you. Upon completing this video series, viewers will achieve the following:
- Learn how, when, and why to use pivot tables for data analysis
- Gain confidence and fluency in creating basic-to-intermediate pivot tables
- Learn how to prepare data for use with pivot tables
- Discover how to create more user-friendly, interactive pivot tables
- Learn how to manipulate pivot tables to help answer critical questions
Getting Started
Ready to start Using Pivot Tables for Data Analysis? First, download the sample data set file. Then, play the first tutorial video, titled Overview: Benefits of pivot tables, pivot table terminology, structuring data for pivot tables.
Resources for Ongoing Learning
- EC Data University – Using Pivot Tables for Data Analysis
- Pivot Tables EC Data University Videos & Resources
- EC Data University – Data Leadership Competencies
About the Authors
Linh Le is a Communications Specialist at SRI International. She currently supports communications for the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems (DaSy), managing the center’s social media efforts and blog.
Nicholas Ortiz, MPA, brings 14 years of experience helping public and private organizations use data to improve outcomes for young children and their families. He has provided training and TA to numerous state and local education agencies around early childhood data analysis, visualization, reporting, governance, management, integration, quality assurance and systems development.
Published April 2024.