1. Spreadsheet Data Tables Data Table 1 allows you to change one input variable’s value at a time and record the impact that the input assumption has on several selected key decision-making outputs. Data Table 2 allows you to change two input variable values simultaneously and record the impact that the input assumptions have on one key decision-making output.

2. How to Set Up a Data Table 1 with Column Input Create the table on the same worksheet where the input variable cell is shown. The first column of the table should hold possible values for the input variable being considered. The first cell in this column should be left blank or filled with an identifying label for documentation purposes only. The first row of the table should contain formulas that refer to the key output variables for which you would like to record observed values (starting in the second column). The table that is defined by the first column and first row is an array that will be filled in with observed values for the key output variables identified by the column heading row. See Blackboard Excel Snippit: What is the purpose of the One Variable Data Table?

3. Calculating the Data Table Values Highlight the entire data table array Select the DATA menu and TABLE option. Fill in the Table dialog box by entering the cell address for the input variable location into the Column Input Cell box. Click OK. Excel will systematically place one value from the first column into the address you specified in the Table dialog box. It will then record the observed values for the output variables in the respective columns. See the two Blackboard Excel snippits: Using Excel’s Data Table Menu Command

4. Modifying the Data Table Array After performing the Data Table menu option, a Table function will be visible inside each cell of the the data table. This is an array function that may not be directly edited or partially removed. To remove the results and formulas, you must select the entire array and press delete. The Table function in the array makes the table dynamic to new possible input values that you may want to test. You may change the numbers in the first column and the table will automatically update with the new observed results.

5. Practice Data Table 1 Practice filling in the Data Table for the interactive tutorial posted in Blackboard.