What is a spreadsheet (and its characteristics)
The spreadsheet is a electronic tool used for organize and calculate numbers and formulas for use in the field of statistics, finance and mathematics.
The main features from a spreadsheet are:
It is organized in a simple grid composed of rows and columns of cells where numbers and/or formulas can be incorporated in an orderly manner. It contains existing functions that allow more complex relationships to be incorporated in a simple way between the different cells. It facilitates a visualization of the created elements and entered.Helps in creating graphs or diagrams through the inserted numbers or percentages.
The advantages of use of spreadsheets lies in an orderly display of the elements as well as providing an easy and intuitive way to create different formats with the data used.
Computerized spreadsheets were first implemented by Richard Mattessich in 1961 for accounting professionals.
The spreadsheet is translated into English as spreadsheet.
See also: Statistics and Accounting.
Types of spreadsheets
The types of spreadsheets that exist are divided into those with a free license and those with a paid license. The best known are, for example:
Google Spreadsheet: free tool for those with a Google Docs account.Calc: is a free license from Openoffice.org.Microsoft Excel: license built into the Microsoft Office package.Gnumeric: built into the Gnome Office package.
See also Excel.