2023 1

My first LAMBDA in Excel

Ever since Excel introduced the LAMBDA function, I've been itching to use it in real life. I got my first chance today. We track the skill index of our different teams (consulting, analytics, technology, etc.) like this: TeamSkill IndexApr-23May-23Jun-23Jul-23Consulting0%0%Analytics33%33%Technology72%72%etc. The "Skill Index" column should pick the LAST value. If Apr-23 is filled, use that. But if May-23 is also filled, use that. ...

2006 2

The virtues of a second screen

The virtues of a second screen. So now, while I am editing this article on my main screen, the screen beside it shows the outline or earlier draft I am working from – and, sometimes, Web sites or other documents I keep referring to. When I edit photos, the second screen lets me compare the copy I am working on with the original, or shows tool palettes and thumbnails of other images, and I can blow up panoramic shots for closer viewing (though with a bar down the middle, like the central pillar of an old car’s windshield). ...

How I buy gadgets

I’m a cautious gadget freak. I love buying gadgets, but think a lot before buying them. Invariably, I use spreadsheets to help me decide. I try to buy only those gadgets that are right for me at the cheapest possible price, and I look at two things: features based on usage and breakeven. Usage-driven buying I pick the features I want based on my usage. For example, when I bought my first mobile, I listed the my most likely uses for the phone: ...

2005 1

Excel shortcuts

Excel shortcut keys via AutomateExcel