Spreadsheet good practice guidelines
Formatting
Formatting plays a crucial role in making a spreadsheet clear, readable, and easier to understand. Good formatting is not just cosmetic – it streamlines workflow and guides the user. Most people prefer well-formatted spreadsheets over messy and consistent formatting.
But a downside of formatting is that it can hide a multitude of sins. Most spreadsheet users express unfounded confidence in a well-formatted spreadsheet, even if the spreadsheet is seriously flawed behind the pretty facade.
Nonetheless, good formatting matters. Appropriate use of formatting can:
- Enhance readability. Good formatting makes a spreadsheet easier to read, especially when applied sparingly and consistently.
- Indicate structure. Sections of a worksheet can be delineated by formatting, making the structure clear and easy to understand.
- Improve interpretation. We can highlight values that warrant attention, to help the user identify what's important.
- Ensure accuracy. Consistent number formatting may indicate values that deviate from adjacent values, potentially indicating an error.
Guidelines:
- There are no merged cells
- Use alternatives to merged cells, such as Center Across Selection or a Text Box
The cell grid is a fundamental feature of spreadsheets. Merged cells break the regularity of the grid structure, leading to many issues. Fortunately, there are better alternatives for achieving the same type of formatting.
Put simply: Do not use merged cells.
