Quick Summary
Whether you’re preparing for a role in data analysis, finance, operations, or administration, one thing is certain: Microsoft Excel is going to show up in your interview. Excel skills are among the most in-demand technical competencies across industries, and recruiters love to assess how proficient you are with spreadsheets through Excel interview questions. These questions not only test your technical knowledge but also reveal how you approach problem-solving and data-driven decision-making.
This guide will walk you through the top Excel interview questions, from basic to advanced, so you can confidently ace your next job interview.
In this article, we’ll cover:
Excel isn’t just about tables and formulas, it’s a business essential. From startups to Fortune 500 companies, professionals use Excel for data analysis, forecasting, budget planning, dashboard creation, and even automation. That’s why interviewers often include Excel interview questions in hiring rounds to assess how well candidates can handle real-world data challenges.
These questions help employers evaluate:
By preparing for Excel interview questions, you not only sharpen your technical skills but also demonstrate your problem-solving ability and your capacity to think logically under pressure, qualities every employer values in data-driven roles.
These Excel interview questions test your foundational understanding of how Excel works. They are commonly asked in entry-level job interviews such as those for administrative assistants, office coordinators, interns, and data entry operators. Mastering these basic concepts is essential to demonstrate your comfort with Excel’s core functionality.
Read More : Mock Interview Questions
Answer:
Microsoft Excel is a widely used spreadsheet application developed by Microsoft. It is designed to help users store, organize, and analyze data efficiently. Excel provides tools for performing arithmetic operations, managing large datasets, visualizing information through charts and graphs, and creating dashboards and reports. It is a standard software across many industries, making it a core part of most Excel interview questions.
Cell: A single unit within a spreadsheet where data is entered. It is the intersection point of a row and a column. Each cell is identified by a unique cell reference (e.g., A1, B2).
Row: A horizontal line of cells in Excel, numbered from 1 to 1,048,576 in modern versions.
Column: A vertical line of cells, labeled alphabetically from A to XFD (16,384 columns in total in Excel 365).
Answer:
A spreadsheet is a digital file made up of multiple worksheets, each containing a grid of rows and columns. It is used for entering, storing, calculating, and analyzing numerical and textual data. In Excel, each file is called a “workbook,” and each individual sheet within it is a “worksheet” or “spreadsheet.”
To create a formula in Excel, start by typing an equal sign (=) into a cell, followed by the desired calculation. For example:
=A1*B1 multiplies the values in A1 and B1.
Formulas can reference other cells, include arithmetic operators, and even nest multiple operations together. They help automate calculations without manually re-entering data.
=A1+B1 adds the values of cell A1 and B1.
Answer:
=A1+B1*C1). It is manually written by the user based on the required logic. You can use basic arithmetic operations like addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (*), and division (/) in formulas.=SUM(A1:A5) adds the values from A1 to A5.=AVERAGE(B1:B10) calculates the mean of the selected range.=IF(A1>100, "High", "Low") returns “High” if A1 is greater than 100; otherwise, “Low”.In summary: All functions are formulas, but not all formulas are functions. Formulas are built manually, while functions are built-in tools designed to make calculations easier and faster.
These questions test your ability to apply Excel functions in real-world scenarios. They’re frequently asked in interviews for roles such as business analysts, finance executives, operations managers, MIS coordinators, and junior data analysts.
Answer:
Pivot Tables are one of the most powerful features in Excel. They are used to quickly summarize, analyze, explore, and present large datasets in a structured format. You can group data by categories, calculate totals, find averages, count occurrences, and even filter or rearrange your data without modifying the original dataset.
Example Use Case:
If you have sales data for different regions and months, a Pivot Table can show the total sales per region per month with just a few clicks.
Steps to create a Pivot Table:
Drag fields into rows, columns, values, and filters as needed.
Select your data range.
Go to Insert > PivotTable.
Choose where to place the table (new worksheet or existing).
Answer:
Conditional Formatting in Excel helps visually highlight important data points based on rules or conditions you set. It improves data readability by applying color scales, icons, or formatting styles to cells that meet specific criteria.
Examples:
How to apply:
Choose from preset rules or create a custom formula.
Select the data range.
Go to Home > Conditional Formatting.
Answer:
VLOOKUP (Vertical Lookup) is used to search for a specific value in the first column of a table and return a related value from the same row in another column.
Syntax:=VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, [range_lookup])
lookup_value: the value you want to search.table_array: the range of cells containing the data.col_index_num: the column number to return a value from.range_lookup: optional; use FALSE for an exact match or TRUE for an approximate match.Example:=VLOOKUP(101, A2:D20, 2, FALSE) — looks for 101 in column A and returns the corresponding value from column B.
Answer:
Answer:
Data Validation is a feature that controls the type of data or the values that users enter into a cell. It’s essential for maintaining data accuracy and consistency, especially in large datasets or shared Excel files.
Why it’s important:
Common uses of Data Validation:
How to apply Data Validation:
Example:
To allow only whole numbers between 1 and 10:
Data Validation helps create smarter, more user-friendly spreadsheets by reducing errors and ensuring clean data entry.
If you’re applying for senior roles or technical positions, expect some of these tougher Excel interview questions.
Answer:
A dynamic named range expands or contracts automatically as you add or remove data. It’s often created using formulas like OFFSET or Excel Tables.
Answer:IFERROR(value, value_if_error) returns a custom result when a formula returns an error.
Example:=IFERROR(A1/B1, "Error") prevents #DIV/0! by returning “Error” if B1 is zero.
Answer:
Go to Review > Protect Sheet, set a password, and select allowed actions. This restricts edits on specified cells.
Answer:
Array formulas perform multiple calculations on one or more values. They return a single or multiple results.
Example: {=SUM(A1:A5*B1:B5)} multiplies and sums two arrays.
Answer:
Power Query is a data connection tool that allows you to import, clean, transform, and merge data from different sources before using it in Excel.
When preparing for interviews, especially roles related to data analytics, finance, MIS reporting, or operations, you may be asked real-life problem-solving questions. These scenario-based Excel interview questions assess how you apply your knowledge in practical settings, rather than just reciting formulas.
Answer:
Use Remove Duplicates from the Data tab.
Use filters or conditional formatting to locate blanks.
Apply Go To Special > Blanks to handle empty cells.
Use functions like TRIM() and CLEAN() to format text properly.
Answer:
Creating dashboards is one of the more advanced Excel interview questions, especially for analyst or MIS roles. An Excel dashboard is a visual representation of key metrics and trends, allowing quick data-driven decisions.
SUMIFS, AVERAGEIFS, or use PivotTables for flexible summaries.OFFSET, INDEX, or named ranges to build dynamic charts.Excel dashboards demonstrate your ability to translate raw data into actionable insights—a skill highly valued by employers.
Answer:
This is one of the classic Excel interview questions where candidates must show analytical thinking and formula proficiency.
Year-over-Year (YoY) Growth measures how a particular metric has changed compared to the same period in the previous year.
=(C2 - B2)/B2 * 100IFERROR() to avoid division errors:=IFERROR((C2 - B2)/B2 * 100, "NA")This question checks not just your formula skills but also your ability to explain metrics that influence business decisions. Being confident with such Excel interview questions gives you an edge in data-driven roles.
For entry-level candidates, questions often focus on usage, understanding of functions, and spreadsheet familiarity.
Answer:
Relative Reference (A1): Changes when copied.
Absolute Reference ($A$1): Stays fixed when copied.
Answer:
Select your data
Go to Insert > Chart
Choose from Column, Line, Pie, etc.
Answer:
Ctrl + C / Ctrl + V: Copy / Paste
Ctrl + Z / Ctrl + Y: Undo / Redo
Alt + =: AutoSum
Ctrl + Shift + L: Apply filters
Ctrl + Arrow keys: Navigate quickly
Answer:
SUMIF, COUNTIF, AVERAGEIFAnswer:
IF() statementsLEFT(), RIGHT(), MID() for text segmentationTEXT() for formattingFILTER() and SORT() (available in Office 365)Answer:
Mastering Excel is more than just learning formulas, it’s about understanding how to apply those tools to solve real-world problems efficiently. Whether you’re a fresher or a seasoned professional, preparing for Excel interview questions can significantly boost your chances of landing the job. From basic functions to advanced scenario-based challenges, these questions reflect your ability to think critically, manage data effectively, and contribute to informed business decisions.
So, take the time to practice, explore real datasets, and walk into your next interview with confidence. By familiarizing yourself with commonly asked Excel interview questions, you’re not only preparing for the test—you’re equipping yourself with one of the most in-demand skills in today’s workplace.
Excel interview questions help employers evaluate a candidate’s skills in Microsoft Excel, including data analysis, formulas, functions, and spreadsheet management. These questions can vary from basic to advanced levels, depending on the job role.
Example Questions:
How do you use VLOOKUP or HLOOKUP?
How do you create a pivot table to summarize data?
Tip: Focus on practicing common formulas, pivot tables, and shortcuts. This preparation makes Excel interviews much easier to handle.
The five basic functions of Microsoft Excel with formulas are:
SUM, adds a range of numbers.
Formula: =SUM(A1:A10)
AVERAGE, calculates the average of selected numbers.
Formula: =AVERAGE(B1:B10)
COUNT, counts the number of cells with numerical data.
Formula: =COUNT(C1:C10)
MAX, finds the highest value in a range.
Formula: =MAX(D1:D10)
MIN, finds the lowest value in a range.
Formula: =MIN(E1:E10)
Example: A Mumbai-based analyst uses SUM to total sales, AVERAGE to find monthly averages, COUNT to tally entries, MAX to find the highest sale, and MIN to find the lowest.
Tip: Practice these functions with real datasets. Mastering them is essential for Excel proficiency.
The seven basic Excel formulas every beginner should know are:
SUM, adds numbers
Formula: =SUM(A1:A10)
AVERAGE, calculates the average
Formula: =AVERAGE(B1:B10)
COUNT, counts numeric entries
Formula: =COUNT(C1:C10)
MAX, finds the highest value
Formula: =MAX(D1:D10)
MIN, finds the lowest value
Formula: =MIN(E1:E10)
IF, performs logical tests
Formula: =IF(F1>50,”Pass”,”Fail”)
VLOOKUP, searches for a value in a table
Formula: =VLOOKUP(G1,TableRange,2,FALSE)
Example: A Mumbai-based analyst uses SUM to total sales, AVERAGE for monthly averages, COUNT to tally entries, MAX and MIN to find extremes, IF to evaluate performance, and VLOOKUP to find employee details.
Tip: Master these formulas to handle most basic Excel tasks efficiently.
Basic MS Excel refers to the basic features and functions of Microsoft Excel, a spreadsheet program used to organize, analyze, and visualize data. It includes creating worksheets, entering data, using simple formulas like SUM and AVERAGE, formatting cells, and making basic charts.
Example: A Mumbai-based analyst uses basic Excel to track monthly sales, calculate totals with SUM, find averages with AVERAGE, and create bar charts to show performance.
Tip: Focus on learning cell formatting, basic formulas, and simple charts. This will make Excel easy to use for everyday tasks.
Excel is used to organize, analyze, and visualize data effectively. It helps with calculations, report creation, information tracking, data analysis, and decision-making based on insights. Businesses, students, and professionals in various fields use Excel for tasks like budgeting, forecasting, and project management.
Example: A Mumbai-based company uses Excel to track monthly sales, calculate totals with SUM, create charts for performance analysis, and generate reports for management.
Tip: Focus on learning formulas, functions, and charts; this maximizes Excel’s usefulness for data management.
VLOOKUP is a function in Excel that lets you search for a value in the first column of a table and return a related value from another column.
Formula: =VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, [range_lookup])
Steps to use VLOOKUP:
Select the cell where you want the result.
Enter the formula with the value to look up, the range of the table, the column number to return, and FALSE for an exact match.
Press Enter to get the result.
Example: A Mumbai-based analyst uses VLOOKUP to find an employee’s department based on their employee ID from a master table.
Tip: Always make sure the lookup value is in the first column of your table and use exact match (FALSE) for accurate results.
Authored by, Rashmi Jaisal
Career Guidance Expert
Rashmi is a Content Strategist who creates research-driven content focused on education, higher education policy, and online learning. She brings an energetic blend of expertise in technology, business, and literature, sparking fresh perspectives and engaging narratives. Outside of work, she’s a passionate traveler who enjoys journaling and curating visual inspiration through Pinterest boards.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
