PODCAST · education
Excel Tips
by CPA Australia
Excel Tips is a podcast for accounting, business and finance professionals who are looking to sharpen their spreadsheet skills and learn new hacks and tricks from Neale Blackwood FCPA, a Microsoft Excel expert. Excel Tips helps spreadsheet users discover Excel's hidden features and shortcuts and understand how best to apply the newest features and functionality. The podcast is a companion to regular articles in INTHEBLACK, CPA Australia's award-winning business magazine. Every podcast episode includes links to the accompanying Excel Tips digital magazine article. Neale Blackwood FCPA has more than 25 years of experience as a Microsoft Excel educator. He is the author of more than 250 INTHEBLACK articles as well as a book, Advanced Excel Reporting for Management Accountants. Subscribe today to stay up-to-date with the latest episodes. Excel Tips is presented by CPA Australia, one of the world's largest accounting bodies, with core services that include education, training, technical su
Episodes
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How to use Python in Excel for sentiment analysis
Excel's core strength is working with numbers. And we love how it makes our data work more efficiently. However, what happens when the data is words? Python in Excel closes that gap, allowing you to analyse short-form feedback such as customer surveys, employee comments, training feedback and…
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Create interactive Excel charts (part 2)
Can you make Excel reporting more interactive? Yes, you can. And it's all to do with dynamic arrays. In the second of this two-part series, discover how to create dynamic Excel charts this time using financial year calculations and checkboxes. This is useful for finance pros because the…
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Create interactive Excel charts
Wouldn't it be useful to learn how to build interactive Excel charts that respond automatically to user input using dynamic arrays? This expert-led episode introduces the core techniques behind flexible charting in Excel, with practical examples. Key takeaways: Create charts that automatically...
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How to create accounting reports with DAX
From trial balances to profit and loss statements, reporting sits at the centre of modern finance. This episode explores how finance professionals can use DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) formulas and Power Pivot to build more powerful accounting reports in Excel. Learn how to create scalable,...
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Why Excel macros still matter in 2026
Excel macros are far from obsolete. And here's why. This episode explores why VBAs (Visual Basic for Applications) still play an important role in workflow efficiency for accountants and finance professionals. Key learnings: Why macros still matter in modern Excel workflows How VBA compares with...
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Template tips to boost workflows
Most finance professionals have made this mistake at least once. You open last month's file, update the numbers, hit save, and only then realise you should have saved it as this month's version of the file. This is where templates can help. In this episode, explore how Excel templates solve that...
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Increment dates easily in Excel
What if you could simplify Excel date calculations with one powerful custom function? Well, this episode explains how. You'll learn: How to handle different date increments including days, weeks and months in one function Using the SWITCH function to create a lookup table How the LAMBDA function...
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Master your messy data
Messy, unstructured data. It slows reporting, creates errors, and tests everyone's patience. Right? This episode breaks down how the new Regular Expressions (REGEX) work and how they help you find patterns in unstructured text, from email addresses to dates and hidden white space. You will learn:...
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Build Better Excel Models
You may know The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People as a cornerstone of modern business thinking. But what happens when those same principles from this book are applied to one of the most widely used tools in finance: Excel? In this episode, we explore how the seven habits framework can be...
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Smarter, faster, easier: Here's what's new in Excel
Excel Tips Summer Season Encore presentation from October 2025 In this episode of Excel Tips, we explore the latest Excel updates that can help to boost productivity and simplify workflows for finance and accounting professionals. Listeners will learn: How to use TRIMRANGE for flexible range...
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Unlock 7 underused Excel features you still need today
Handy new Excel features are added regularly – but some "older" functions are still particularly useful to your workflows. Smart power users know these older functions and their value – which is why this episode highlights some of the overlooked Excel features that are still valuable to your...
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How to simplify complex calculations with custom functions
Did you know that you can transform the way you can build models, reports and schedules with custom functions? This episode guides you on how they make complex calculations cleaner and easier to maintain. You'll also learn practical ways to document, test and reuse these functions for consistent...
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Smarter, faster, easier: Here's what's new in Excel
In this episode of Excel Tips, we explore the latest Excel updates that can help to boost productivity and simplify workflows for finance and accounting professionals. Listeners will learn: How to use TRIMRANGE for flexible range selection What's new with pivot table formatting and an exciting...
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Unleash the power of Python in Excel
In this third and final episode of a three-part series, we explore how the integration of Python unlocks advanced tools for analysis, automation and visualisation. Listeners will learn: How Python connects with Power Query to extract and transform data Ways to preview and filter information using...
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Python in Excel: Practical applications
In this second episode of a three-part series, you will build on the basics from part one to gain a clear understanding of how to use Python directly within Excel cells. This includes using the Pandas library, for example, to merge datasets and create data-rich outputs with minimal code. You'll...
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Getting started with Python in Excel
Unlock the potential of Python in Excel with this essential first episode in a three-part series. Designed for accountants, finance professionals and Excel power users, this episode introduces the basics of integrating Python code directly into Excel cells. Learn how Python enhances Excel's...
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Excel's GROUPBY and PIVOTBY explained
Excel's new functions, GROUPBY and PIVOTBY, offer a smarter way to build reports. Instead of relying on traditional pivot tables, these new tools allow you to summarise datasets using dynamic, formula-based solutions that update automatically when the underlying data changes. In this episode:...
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Better share price reports with Excel's new tool
Need to turn stock market data into smart, professional reports? Discover how to use Excel's new and powerful Stock History function to quickly transform raw share price data into clear, insightful reports. Learn how to streamline reporting, visualise trends and make better-informed decisions…
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Elevate your Pareto analysis skills with Excel
The Pareto principle is a powerful concept for business. In this episode we'll explore this principle (also known as the 80/20 rule) and learn how to apply it effectively in Excel for smarter, data-driven decisions. Discover how to pinpoint vital data – such as the 20 per cent of clients…
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Unlock the power of Microsoft Forms in Excel
What if you could seamlessly collect and analyse data right inside Excel? In this episode, learn more about Microsoft Forms, a powerful tool in Microsoft 365 (which, by the time you read this may be renamed Microsoft 365 CoPilot). Discover how Forms integrates directly into Excel, making it…
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New tool explained: boost your efficiency with checkboxes
Ready to unlock a hidden gem in your Microsoft Excel subscription? In this episode you'll discover the power of checkboxes with practical examples to explore how this new function can streamline your workflow. This includes how to use TRUE/FALSE values in formulas and conditional formatting to...
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Improve your PDF data handling with Power Query
Ever struggled to extract crucial financial data from PDF files into Excel? As accountants and finance professionals, this can be a regular occurrence. To help you, this episode explores Microsoft Excel's Power Query feature. You'll uncover how to seamlessly import data from system-generated PDFs...
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Handy hack to create timeline charts
Excel doesn't have a built-in timeline chart but we'll show you how to create one. In this episode you'll learn how using a scatter chart can help you build a timeline chart. For easy reference, here are the episode timestamps: 0:17 - About timeline charts in Excel 1:33 - Hacking the scatter…
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Master calendar creation in Excel
Calendars are your go-to tool for planning. In this Excel Tips episode, you'll learn the steps to create a single-month calendar from scratch. Discover how to combine advanced functions to build a two-dimensional calendar structure, and how to format your dates and highlight weekends and…
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How to add a user interaction into Power Query
Reports are crucial to your work, aren't they? Power Query is a valuable tool for importing many types of data into Excel to help you create these reports. However, it does have limitations. In this episode, you'll learn how to address one of Power Query's key shortcomings: user interactions. By...
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Learn a smart way to hide blank or zero rows
Looking to improve your report-building skills? If so, this is the episode for you. Uncover tips on how to leverage multiple Excel features to create a system that effortlessly hides blank and zero rows in your reports. Also in this episode, you'll discover the subtotal function's superpower and...
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The power of heat maps for sales and costs data
Looking for ways to gain deeper insights from your sales and costs data in Excel? This episode explores the power of heat maps, a data visualisation technique often used for climate data, but equally effective for business analysis. For fast access, use these timestamps: 0:15 – Using heat maps…
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3 powerful macros to streamline your workflow
There's a misconception that Excel macros are outdated or unnecessary. In this episode we set the record straight and explore their continued value. Delve into three practical macros that can streamline various tasks in your Excel workflow. More importantly, you'll come away with the knowledge to...
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Level up your custom functions skills
Tune in to discover how mastering custom functions can help simplify two complex issues with Excel formulas. Improve your problem-solving skills by harnessing the power of custom functions. For fast access, use these timestamps: 0:20 - Custom functions, episode overview. 1:39 - Summing spill...
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How to create a dashboard using Excel's dynamic arrays
Do you want to improve your dashboard-creating skills in Excel? Look no further. This episode has all the expert tips you need to know using dynamic arrays to create a dashboard. For fast access, use these timestamps: About the report template and using dynamic arrays - 0:17 About dynamic arrays…
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How to automate report building in Excel (part 2)
Don't miss this episode, the second in a three-part series that explains how you can use the power of dynamic arrays in report building. Learn how to review a report that's using dynamic arrays to create an automated month and year-to-date report. For fast access, use these timestamps: About the...
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How to automate report building in Excel
Are you an accountant or finance professional looking to enhance your daily workflows? Don't miss this episode, which delves into the exciting capabilities of dynamic arrays, empowering you to effortlessly build automated reports. For fast access, use these timestamps: The tutorial example…
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Master the latest Excel changes: your ultimate guide
For accounting and finance professionals, it's vital that you keep up-to-date with changes to Microsoft Excel functionality. This episode explains what you need to know, including the latest changes to three Excel functions, and opening and working with CSV files. Tune in now for insights that…
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How to master using different Excel techniques together
Do you want to improve your Excel skills in 2024? Start the new year on a positive note with these essential tips that can help you master a couple of Excel techniques together. In this episode, we show you how to build custom lists and use range names. For fast access, use these timestamps…
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Top Excel tips for your first 100 days in a new job
Starting a new role in accounting and finance? We understand it can be stressful as you try to make a good first impression. This Excel Tips episode is specially designed with your first 100 days in mind, to help you hit the ground running. For fast access, use these timestamps: Interface setup –...
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How to create improved data visualisations in Excel
If you're looking for ways to display diverse types of data using Excel's charts and visualisation tools, this podcast, loaded with tips, will show you how. The example in this episode compares one month's data from this financial year with the corresponding month from the previous fiscal year.…
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Master 10 new and revamped Excel features
Do you want an Excel edge? Whether you're a seasoned pro or starting out, master these 10 new and revamped features to help streamline your workflow and boost your spreadsheet efficiency. For fast access, use these timestamps: Web based version of Excel: 0:30 Position of the blanks option in…
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Boost your skills with tips for Excel function updates
Excel is constantly evolving and improving, and it's crucial to stay up to date with all the latest changes. This companion podcast is here to help you sort quickly through the most relevant function updates. Are you ready to take your Excel skills to the next level? Tune in now. For fast access,...
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Unlock 14 expert tips for Excel formulas
Unleash your Excel skills by using the valuable functionality of formulas. Go straight to episode sections: The formula bar – 1:06 Starting formulas – 1:41 Using functions – 2:58 Function arguments – 4:09 Relative and absolute cell and range references – 7:15 The calculation sequence – 9:46...
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Why Excel can be a university student's secret weapon
Are you a university student or recent graduate? Are you looking to gain a competitive edge in the job market, specifically in the fields of accounting and finance? Then this episode is what you need! Packed with practical advice tailored to your needs, it will equip you with valuable Excel tips...
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22 Excel shortcuts to supercharge your efficiency
Unlock your Excel efficiency with these 22 time-saving shortcuts for everyday work tasks. Tune in now to supercharge your productivity. Timestamps: Files and folders: 1:05 Quick access toolbar: 4:17 Keyboard types: 7:20 Keyboard shortcuts: 9:06 Save as: 12:54 Control key: 13:45 More control key...
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Excel and ChatGPT
Can ChatGPT give accurate and reliable answers to Excel questions? Neale Blackwood CPA puts this popular AI tool to the test. Host: Neale Blackwood CPA has more than 20 years of experience as a Microsoft Excel educator. He is the author of more than 200 INTHEBLACK articles as well as a book,...
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Learn Excel's built-in artificial intelligence feature
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has come to Microsoft Excel, and it will make your life easier when working with data. The AI function can easily create PivotTables and PivotCharts, which is useful for analysis and audit work. You can also generate reports at the click of a button. Listen here to...
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How to use custom functions without macros
Along with the LAMBDA function, other new functions make Excel's function language behave more like a programming language. Which can help you in various ways. Want to learn more? Excel expert Neale Blackwood CPA steps you through. Listen now. Host: Neale Blackwood CPA has more than 20 years of...
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How to do dynamic arrays (subscription version)
An update to the subscription version of Microsoft Excel has the LAMBDA function, which addresses a key challenge when using dynamic arrays. To explain more about this functionality is Excel expert, Neale Blackwood CPA. Listen now. Host: Neale Blackwood CPA has more than 20 years of experience as…
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How to create vertical lines in line charts
When creating a line chart in Microsoft Excel, do you need to insert a vertical line to mark something on the chart? To explain how is Excel expert, Neale Blackwood CPA. Listen now. Host: Neale Blackwood CPA has more than 20 years of experience as a Microsoft Excel educator. He is the author of...
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Excel tips: how to use the new data types feature
Today's episode examines the new data types feature in Microsoft Excel. There are four data types you can now import from the data ribbon, and that includes stock prices. To explain how you do all this is CPA Australia's Excel expert, Neale Blackwood. Listen now. Host: Neale Blackwood CPA. He has...
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Excel tips: how to work with dates and days
Today's episode investigates working with dates and days in Microsoft Excel. Excel can perform basic addition and subtraction calculations using dates, as well as dedicated functions that perform more complex calcs. To explain is CPA Australia's Excel expert, Neale Blackwood. Listen now. Host:...
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Excel tips: how to use Goal Seek
Today's episode looks at a handy tool in Microsoft Excel called Goal Seek. It can be used to create a loan schedule with an interest-free period using formulas. To explain how you do this is CPA Australia's Excel expert, Neale Blackwood. Listen now. Host: Neale Blackwood CPA. He has more than 20...
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Excel tips: how to improve your formatting
Today's episode will help with your formatting in Microsoft Excel. Want to know how to make your files easier to read, understand and use? To explain is CPA Australia's Excel expert, Neale Blackwood. Listen now. Host: Neale Blackwood CPA. He has more than 20 years of experience as a Microsoft…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Excel Tips is a podcast for accounting, business and finance professionals who are looking to sharpen their spreadsheet skills and learn new hacks and tricks from Neale Blackwood FCPA, a Microsoft Excel expert. Excel Tips helps spreadsheet users discover Excel's hidden features and shortcuts and understand how best to apply the newest features and functionality. The podcast is a companion to regular articles in INTHEBLACK, CPA Australia's award-winning business magazine. Every podcast episode includes links to the accompanying Excel Tips digital magazine article. Neale Blackwood FCPA has more than 25 years of experience as a Microsoft Excel educator. He is the author of more than 250 INTHEBLACK articles as well as a book, Advanced Excel Reporting for Management Accountants. Subscribe today to stay up-to-date with the latest episodes. Excel Tips is presented by CPA Australia, one of the world's largest accounting bodies, with core services that include education, training, technical su
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CPA Australia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Excel Tips have?
Excel Tips currently has 52 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Excel Tips about?
Excel Tips is a podcast for accounting, business and finance professionals who are looking to sharpen their spreadsheet skills and learn new hacks and tricks from Neale Blackwood FCPA, a Microsoft Excel expert. Excel Tips helps spreadsheet users discover Excel's hidden features and shortcuts and...
How often does Excel Tips release new episodes?
Excel Tips has 52 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Excel Tips?
You can listen to Excel Tips on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Excel Tips?
Excel Tips is created and hosted by CPA Australia.
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