Teams use Excel desktop, Excel on the web, or Google Sheets. Core formula ideas transfer; features and shortcuts differ.
Comparison
| Topic | Excel | Google Sheets |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy pivots / Power Query | Strong desktop | Improving; differs by org |
| Real-time collaboration | Excel online | Native in Sheets |
| XLOOKUP, dynamic arrays | Modern Excel 365 | Often has similar functions |
Compatibility tip
Avoid obscure desktop-only features in files shared with mixed tools—stick to common functions (SUM, IF, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, pivot basics).
Important interview questions and answers
- Q: Which for enterprise finance models?
A: Often Excel desktop for heavy models; confirm org standard.
Self-check
- One difference between Excel and Sheets collaboration.
- Why stick to common functions in shared files?
Tip: Ask your team which tool is official before building VBA or Power Query heavy files.
Interview prep
- Collaboration?
Sheets is web-native; Excel desktop strong for heavy models and Power Query.