How can you use Excel to automate repetitive tasks without using macros?
Instruction: Discuss alternative methods to macros for automating tasks in Excel, including any functions or features.
Context: This question assesses the candidate's knowledge of Excel's automation capabilities beyond macros, testing their ability to streamline workflow efficiently.
Updated
Official answer available
Read the opening below, then unlock the full answer and practical guidance.
Choose the feature that expresses the repeated task:
Tables and structured references keep formulas tied to named columns and can extend calculated columns as rows are added. Formulas such as SUMIFS, XLOOKUP or INDEX/MATCH recompute derived values under the workbook's calculation settings. Power Query records repeatable import/cleaning/append/join steps and applies them when refreshed. PivotTables/PivotCharts summarize a defined source, with a refresh step after relevant source changes...