Many Excel tools are optional extras, but these six are essentials I rely on in every workbook.

Users will appreciate a chart that updates right before their eyes. In Microsoft Excel 2007 and Excel 2010, it’s as easy as creating a table. In earlier versions, you’ll need the formula method.

Use these six shortcuts to select Table elements and insert columns and rows quickly in Microsoft Excel, making your use of Tables that much easier. You’re probably familiar with selection shortcuts ...