PURPOSE A basic spreadsheet helps organize, calculate, sort, and review information in rows and columns. START WITH STRUCTURE Use the first row for clear column headers. Put one record per row and one type of information per column. COMMON COLUMNS Examples include date, name, description, category, status, owner, amount, due date, and notes. BEST PRACTICES Avoid merged cells in data tables, keep headings consistent, and use simple formatting so the sheet remains easy to sort and filter. SAVE EARLY Give the file a clear name and save it in the correct location before entering important data.