5 Excel Data Analysis Skills to Learn for Better Reporting in 2026

In 2026, the ability to analyze data and present it effectively is more crucial than ever. 

Microsoft Excel remains the go-to tool for data analysis across industries, and its capabilities extend far beyond basic calculations. 

From data visualization to complex statistical analysis, mastering key Excel skills is essential for professionals looking to elevate their reporting capabilities.

Whether you’re working with sales data, financial reports, or business performance metrics, here are five essential Excel data analysis skills to learn for better reporting in 2026.

How We Selected These Excel Data Analysis Courses

• Focus on practical, real-world skills for data analysis and reporting
• Emphasis on Excel tools and techniques that are directly applicable to business and organizational data
• Courses offered by recognized platforms that offer flexible learning options
• Inclusion of certifications that are valuable in the professional world

Overview: Best Excel Data Analysis Courses for 2026

5 Best Excel Data Analysis Skills to Learn for Better Reporting in 2026

1. Master Data Analytics in Excel — Great Learning Academy

This course on data analysis in Excel covers advanced techniques, focusing on powerful tools such as PivotTables, Power Query, and Macros. 

It’s designed to help professionals build sophisticated reports and dashboards, analyze large datasets, and automate repetitive tasks.

• Delivery & Duration: Online (self-paced), approx. 10.5 hours
• Credentials: Professional certificate from Great Learning Academy
• Instructional Quality & Design: Hands-on learning with projects like building interactive business dashboards, along with practical exercises and real-world applications.
• Support: 24/7 AI-driven coding assistance

Key Outcomes / Strengths

• Master advanced Excel functions and formulas such as VLOOKUP, INDEX/MATCH, and IF statements
• Automate data entry and report generation using Macros
• Use Power Query to clean and transform data from multiple sources
• Create detailed, interactive dashboards with Excel’s PivotTables

2. Data Analysis with Excel — LinkedIn Learning

This course is designed for managers and executives who need to make data-driven decisions but don’t have a technical background. 

It covers the fundamentals of Excel’s data analysis tools, focusing on building reports and visualizations to present data meaningfully.

• Delivery & Duration: Online (self-paced), approx. 4–6 hours
• Credentials: LinkedIn Learning Certificate
• Instructional Quality & Design: Practical modules with real-world business scenarios and use cases for reporting and visualization.
• Support: Integrated LinkedIn professional network

Key Outcomes / Strengths

• Learn to create and interpret Excel reports for data-driven decision-making
• Use PivotTables, Charts, and conditional formatting to visualize data
• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to track business metrics
• Interpret complex data and turn it into actionable insights for teams

3. Data Analytics Using Excel — Great Learning Academy

This Excel basics for data analysis is ideal for beginners and those looking to strengthen their foundational Excel skills. 

It covers basic data analysis techniques and introduces essential tools such as functions, formulas, and Excel’s data visualization capabilities.

• Delivery & Duration: Online (self-paced), approx. 2 hours
• Credentials: Free certificate of completion from Great Learning Academy
• Instructional Quality & Design: Simple, beginner-friendly curriculum with clear explanations and easy-to-follow steps.
• Support: Access to a learner community for peer support

Key Outcomes / Strengths

• Understand the basics of Excel for data analysis, including sorting, filtering, and using formulas
• Create basic data visualizations such as bar charts and pie charts
• Perform simple data manipulations using Excel functions

4. Excel for Business Analytics — edX

This course teaches business analysts how to use Excel for business data analysis. 

It covers key analytical techniques, including building models, performing what-if analysis, and using advanced Excel tools to extract insights from data.

• Delivery & Duration: Online (self-paced), approx. 8–10 hours
• Credentials: Verified certificate from edX
• Instructional Quality & Design: Structured lessons with examples from real business cases, focusing on problem-solving and decision-making.
• Support: Instructor-led support available

Key Outcomes / Strengths

• Build financial models and perform complex analyses using Excel
• Create forecasts and perform scenario analysis
• Automate repetitive tasks with Excel’s built-in tools

5. Advanced Excel for Data Analysis — Simplilearn

This advanced course is designed for professionals looking to deepen their expertise in Excel. 

It focuses on advanced techniques such as data modeling, Power Pivot, and Power Query, which are essential for high-level data analysis and reporting.

• Delivery & Duration: Online (self-paced), approx. 12 hours
• Credentials: Certificate of Completion from Simplilearn
• Instructional Quality & Design: In-depth curriculum with a focus on advanced Excel tools for data analysis.
• Support: Dedicated mentoring and practical assignments

Key Outcomes / Strengths

• Master Power Query for data cleaning and integration
• Build complex models and reports with Power Pivot
• Use advanced Excel functions like array formulas and data tables for analysis

Final Thoughts

As data continues to shape business decisions in 2026, mastering Excel for data analysis is more important than ever. 

These courses will help you develop the essential skills to create detailed reports, analyze complex datasets, and present your findings in a way that drives action. 

For those just starting, these free online courses provide a great entry point, while more advanced options will deepen your knowledge and prepare you for higher-level analysis.

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