Analysts repeat a workflow: import → clean → model → summarize → chart → share. Developers who mirror this speak the same language in reviews.
Stages
- Ingest — CSV export, Power Query, copy-paste
- Structure — tables, consistent headers, data types
- Calculate — helper columns, assumptions sheet
- Summarize — pivots, charts, executive tab
- Publish — PDF, locked ranges, versioned filename
File hygiene
- Separate
Inputs,Calcs, andOutputssheets - Document units (USD vs EUR) and date basis
- Avoid merging cells in data tables (breaks sorting/pivots)
Important interview questions and answers
- Q: Why separate Inputs and Calcs?
A: Reduces accidental edits and clarifies audit trail.
Self-check
- List the five workflow stages.
- Why avoid merged cells in data tables?
Challenge
Map your last report
- Recall a spreadsheet you built or received.
- Label which sheets were Inputs, Calcs, Outputs.
- Note one hygiene fix you would make today.
Done when: you can name the workflow stages and one improvement.
Interview prep
- Inputs sheet?
Isolates assumptions from calculations for audits.