The database capabilities of Excel are very powerful. In fact, not only can Excel be used to create a simple searchable database, it also can be used to create a proper relational database.

Tips This article applies to Microsoft Excel 2007, 2010, and Office 365. View the videos listed in the Resources section for more ideas on using Excel's database functions.

Excel tables have many benefits that regular spreadsheets lack. The biggest is the option to use data from multiple tables to create queries and reports.

In Excel, you can create relationships between two tables based on the matching data within the table. Learn how to create relationships between tables in Excel.

For detailed analysis, you can create a central dashboard with slicers, timelines, and charts. To learn more, check out our dedicated guide on creating PivotTables in Excel.

Here's how to create a pivot table in Excel to slice and dice your data, letting you perform in-depth analyses and spot important trends.

When collaborating in Excel, sometimes the collaboration can be distracting. Here's how to make a static image so you can do your own work without interruption.

Microsoft Office is more than the sum of its parts—you can link an Excel database table to an Access database, integrating your data and adding value. Here's how.