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Jamie Schroeder
By the end of this project, you will be able to build a simple budget using Google Sheets. You will be able to easily capture variances and identify trends. You will be able to format your budget, identify and communicate drivers of variances and make the budget presentable.
Note: This course works best for learners who are based in the North America region. We’re currently working on providing the same experience in other regions.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/elx1sz/build
What's inside
Syllabus
Variance Analysis using Google Sheets to Identify Trends
By the end of this project, you will be able to build a simple budget using Google Sheets. You will be able to easily capture variances and identify trends. You will be able to format your budget, identify and communicate drivers of variances and make the budget presentable.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Meant for beginners who are initially learning how to create a budget
Appropriate if used as a foundation for later intermediate study
Involves hands-on applications such as creating a budget in Google Sheets
Note: This course is best for learners based in North America; other regions will have a different experience
Save this course
Save Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Budgeting and variance with google sheets
Learners say Google Sheets is a good option for beginners who want to understand budgeting and variance analysis as well as the basics of Google Sheets. Students call the material easy to understand and effective, but they also say it's basic and very short. Moreover, students enjoyed the free course and easy-to-follow instructions.
Course material is clear and straightforward.
"Very Basic course."
"The instructions are really easy to follow for beginners & definitely effective."
Good option for those with limited experience in Google Sheets.
"Pefect If you do not what is google sheets and it your first time working on it."
"The course was very easy to follow and understand even though I am a novice in this google sheets."
Course is brief.
"quick learning"
Content may be too basic for experienced learners.
"Very Basic course."
"Simple and effective for non-finance professionals."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets with these
activities:
Review financial planning concepts
Show steps
Reviewing financial planning concepts will help you understand the fundamentals of budgeting and financial management.
Browse courses on
Financial Planning
Show steps
-
Read articles and blog posts about financial planning.
-
Watch videos and tutorials on budgeting.
-
Take practice quizzes on financial planning concepts.
Learn about budgeting tools and resources
Show steps
Learning about budgeting tools and resources will help you identify and use the best tools for your needs.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
-
Research different budgeting apps and software.
-
Attend a budgeting workshop or webinar.
-
Read articles and blog posts about budgeting tools and resources.
Practice creating budgets
Show steps
Creating practice budgets will help you develop the skills necessary to create a realistic and effective budget.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
-
Create a sample budget using a spreadsheet template.
-
Track your expenses for a week or two and then create a budget based on your spending habits.
-
Compare your actual spending to your budgeted amounts and make adjustments as needed.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in a budgeting competition
Show steps
Participating in a budgeting competition will motivate you to create a budget and track your progress.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
-
Find a budgeting competition that interests you.
-
Register for the competition.
-
Create a budget and track your progress.
-
Submit your budget to the competition.
Create a personal budget
Show steps
Creating a personal budget will allow you to apply the principles you learn in the course and track your own financial situation.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
-
Gather your financial information, including income, expenses, and assets.
-
Create a budget using a spreadsheet or budgeting app.
-
Track your actual spending and compare it to your budget.
-
Make adjustments to your budget as needed.
Write a blog post about budgeting
Show steps
Writing a blog post about budgeting will help you reinforce your understanding of budgeting concepts and share your knowledge with others.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
-
Choose a topic related to budgeting.
-
Research your topic and gather information.
-
Write your blog post.
-
Publish your blog post.
-
Promote your blog post on social media.
Contribute to a budgeting open source project
Show steps
Contributing to a budgeting open source project will allow you to learn about budgeting while also giving back to the community.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
-
Find a budgeting open source project that interests you.
-
Contribute to the project in a meaningful way.
-
Submit your pull request.
Review financial planning concepts
Show steps
Reviewing financial planning concepts will help you understand the fundamentals of budgeting and financial management.
Browse courses on
Financial Planning
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read articles and blog posts about financial planning.
- Watch videos and tutorials on budgeting.
- Take practice quizzes on financial planning concepts.
Learn about budgeting tools and resources
Show steps
Learning about budgeting tools and resources will help you identify and use the best tools for your needs.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different budgeting apps and software.
- Attend a budgeting workshop or webinar.
- Read articles and blog posts about budgeting tools and resources.
Practice creating budgets
Show steps
Creating practice budgets will help you develop the skills necessary to create a realistic and effective budget.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a sample budget using a spreadsheet template.
- Track your expenses for a week or two and then create a budget based on your spending habits.
- Compare your actual spending to your budgeted amounts and make adjustments as needed.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Participate in a budgeting competition
Show steps
Participating in a budgeting competition will motivate you to create a budget and track your progress.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a budgeting competition that interests you.
- Register for the competition.
- Create a budget and track your progress.
- Submit your budget to the competition.
Create a personal budget
Show steps
Creating a personal budget will allow you to apply the principles you learn in the course and track your own financial situation.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather your financial information, including income, expenses, and assets.
- Create a budget using a spreadsheet or budgeting app.
- Track your actual spending and compare it to your budget.
- Make adjustments to your budget as needed.
Write a blog post about budgeting
Show steps
Writing a blog post about budgeting will help you reinforce your understanding of budgeting concepts and share your knowledge with others.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic related to budgeting.
- Research your topic and gather information.
- Write your blog post.
- Publish your blog post.
- Promote your blog post on social media.
Contribute to a budgeting open source project
Show steps
Contributing to a budgeting open source project will allow you to learn about budgeting while also giving back to the community.
Browse courses on
Budgeting
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a budgeting open source project that interests you.
- Contribute to the project in a meaningful way.
- Submit your pull request.
Career center
Learners who complete Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Are you eyeing a profession where you can delve into financial performance and provide valuable insights? As a Financial Analyst, you will analyze financial data to assess the financial health of companies, make investment recommendations, and develop financial plans. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can equip you with foundational skills to excel in this role. By learning to construct budgets, identify trends, and communicate variance drivers, you will gain a solid understanding of financial performance analysis, a key aspect of financial advisory.
Budget Analyst
Budget Analyst
If you are intrigued by the prospect of formulating and managing budgets, consider becoming a Budget Analyst. This role involves planning, developing, and monitoring budgets to ensure efficient resource allocation. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course aligns perfectly with this profession. You will learn the intricacies of budget creation, variance analysis, and trend identification, providing you with a competitive edge in this field.
Management Consultant
Management Consultant
If you possess a knack for solving complex business problems and driving organizational performance, Management Consulting may be your calling. As a Management Consultant, you will collaborate with clients to analyze their operations, identify areas for improvement, and develop and implement solutions. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can bolster your analytical toolkit. By mastering budgeting, variance analysis, and trend identification, you will gain valuable skills to support clients in optimizing their financial performance and achieving their strategic goals.
Financial Planner
Financial Planner
If you are passionate about guiding individuals and families towards financial well-being, consider becoming a Financial Planner. In this role, you will create personalized financial plans, manage investments, and provide guidance on a wide range of financial matters. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can lay the groundwork for your success in financial planning. By developing a solid understanding of budgeting, variance analysis, and financial trends, you will be well-equipped to help clients achieve their financial goals and secure their financial futures.
Accountant
Accountant
If you have a keen eye for detail and enjoy working with numbers, Accountancy may be a suitable career path for you. As an Accountant, you will be responsible for recording, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions to ensure accuracy and compliance. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can provide a solid foundation for your accounting career. By learning to construct budgets, analyze variances, and identify trends, you will gain valuable skills to support organizations in maintaining financial integrity and making informed business decisions.
Auditor
Auditor
If you are interested in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of financial information, consider becoming an Auditor. In this role, you will examine and verify financial records, assess internal controls, and report on the financial health of organizations. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can enhance your auditing skills. By gaining proficiency in budgeting, variance analysis, and trend identification, you will be well-equipped to identify potential risks and irregularities, contributing to the integrity of financial reporting.
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
If you have a passion for extracting insights from data, Data Analysis may be an ideal career path for you. As a Data Analyst, you will collect, analyze, and interpret data to identify trends, patterns, and relationships. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can complement your data analysis skills. By mastering budgeting, variance analysis, and trend identification, you will gain the ability to analyze financial data effectively, providing valuable insights to support decision-making.
Risk Analyst
Risk Analyst
If you are drawn to assessing and mitigating potential risks, Risk Analysis may be a rewarding career option. As a Risk Analyst, you will identify, analyze, and evaluate risks to develop strategies for risk management and mitigation. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can strengthen your risk analysis capabilities. By learning to analyze variances and identify trends, you will be well-equipped to assess financial risks, anticipate potential threats, and implement measures to minimize their impact.
Financial Manager
Financial Manager
If you are looking to lead and manage financial operations within an organization, Financial Management may be a suitable career path for you. As a Financial Manager, you will oversee the financial planning, budgeting, and reporting processes, ensuring the efficient use of financial resources. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can provide valuable insights for your financial management responsibilities. By gaining expertise in budgeting, variance analysis, and trend identification, you will be well-equipped to make informed financial decisions and drive organizational success.
Investment Analyst
Investment Analyst
If you are fascinated by financial markets and investment strategies, Investment Analysis may be a captivating career choice for you. As an Investment Analyst, you will research, analyze, and make recommendations on investment opportunities. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can enhance your investment analysis skills. By mastering budgeting, variance analysis, and trend identification, you will gain a solid understanding of financial performance and risk assessment, enabling you to make informed investment decisions.
Actuary
Actuary
If you possess a strong mathematical background and an interest in assessing and managing financial risks, Actuarial Science may be a rewarding career path for you. As an Actuary, you will use mathematical and statistical models to estimate and manage financial risks in areas such as insurance, pensions, and investments. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course may be useful for developing your foundational skills in financial analysis and risk management, providing a stepping stone towards a successful career as an Actuary.
Statistician
Statistician
If you are drawn to the world of data analysis and statistical modeling, Statistics may be a compelling career option for you. As a Statistician, you will collect, analyze, interpret, and present data to uncover patterns, trends, and relationships. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can complement your statistical skills by providing a practical foundation in data analysis and trend identification. By mastering budgeting and variance analysis, you will gain valuable experience in working with real-world data and developing statistical insights.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
If you are passionate about leveraging data to solve complex problems and drive business outcomes, Data Science may be an exciting career path for you. As a Data Scientist, you will use a combination of programming, mathematics, and statistics to extract insights from data and develop predictive models. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course may be useful for building your foundational skills in data analysis and statistical modeling, providing a stepping stone towards a successful career in Data Science.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analyst
If you are interested in applying mathematical and analytical techniques to optimize complex systems and processes, Operations Research may be a rewarding career path for you. As an Operations Research Analyst, you will use mathematical models, simulations, and data analysis to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of operations within various industries. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course may be useful for developing your foundational skills in mathematical modeling and data analysis, providing a stepping stone towards a successful career in Operations Research.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
If you are eager to analyze business processes and identify areas for improvement, Business Analysis may be a suitable career path for you. As a Business Analyst, you will work closely with stakeholders to understand their needs, analyze data, and develop recommendations for process improvements. The 'Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets' course can provide valuable insights for your business analysis responsibilities. By gaining expertise in budgeting, variance analysis, and trend identification, you will be well-equipped to analyze business performance and drive organizational success.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/elx1sz/build
Reading list
We've selected seven books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Build a Budget and Analyze Variance using Google Sheets.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of corporate finance. It covers all the essential topics, including budgeting, forecasting, capital budgeting, and risk management.
Save
Beginner-friendly guide to using Google Sheets. It will help you learn the basics of the program, such as how to create and edit spreadsheets, format data, use formulas and functions, and create charts and graphs.
Provides a comprehensive overview of budgeting and variance analysis. It covers the different types of budgets, the budgeting process, and the use of variance analysis to monitor and control performance.
Provides a comprehensive overview of variance analysis, a statistical technique that can be used to identify and explain differences between expected and actual results.
Shows you how to use Excel to perform variance analysis. It covers all the essential steps, from data preparation to the interpretation of results.
Save
More advanced guide to Google Sheets. It covers more complex topics, such as using scripts and macros, automating tasks, and creating custom functions.
More technical guide to variance analysis. It provides detailed explanations of the concepts and methods involved, and it includes numerous examples and case studies.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/elx1sz/build
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Effort
1 week of study, 2 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Coursera Project Network
Instructor
Jamie Schroeder
Language
English
Good to know
Meant for beginners who are initially learning how to create a budget
Appropriate if used as a foundation for later intermediate study
Involves hands-on applications such as creating a budget in Google Sheets
Note: This course is best for learners based in North America; other regions will have a different experience
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