Python’s integration in Excel can unlock powerful reports and automation. But what if you try to use Python in Excel without any coding experience? It’s possible, but there is still a learning curve involved.
I jumped into Python in Excel to see what it could do with some of the data I was testing. While I was able to complete certain functions, I also discovered that there are definitely limitations when you dive in without coding experience.
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It’s easier to use Python within Excel (but not foolproof)
You don’t need a standalone Python editor
If you have a Microsoft 365 subscription, you can access Python within Excel, and you don’t need to use Python as a separate app. Instead, you can visit the Formulas tab in Excel and select the Insert Python option. This creates a field where you can enter Python functions.
Another way to access Python in Excel is to type “=PY” and then press Tab. This creates a cell where you can enter your Python functions. To commit any code, you will need to use Ctrl + Enter once you are done adding the relevant text.
Using Python within Excel rather than as a separate app provides ease of use in a number of ways. Firstly, you don’t have to install many of the libraries you’re using separately, as Excel pre-installs them. The integration also includes Anaconda, which not only provides access to the libraries but also helps you preview the data in your DataFrames.
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You’re still going to need to learn the syntax for libraries
This syntax differs from Excel formulas
Libraries are a crucial part of using Python in Excel, and you will need to familiarize yourself with the syntax of each to initiate the functions you want them to perform. This is similar to how Excel uses specific syntax for the formulas you use in the software.
The libraries you’ve imported and those already included in Excel will determine what you can do with your data. Each library works best with certain types of data. For example, you can use Matplotlib to create charts and figures. Pandas gives you data analysis tools. Meanwhile, Wordcloud is a word cloud generator.
This allows you to automate certain tasks with Python in Excel, which can be really useful for data analysis and visualization.
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Some tasks are simpler without Python
Quick Analysis is great
I had figured that both Excel and Python have considerable learning curves, so I focused on trying to visualize my data using Python and Matplotlib. But when I tried (and failed) to quickly create a series that I could use for my Python-based bar chart, I decided to click on the small pop-up that appeared when I highlighted the Favorite Food column in my data.
I could immediately create a customizable bar chart using the data from my tablewithout needing to define the parameters for the x- or y-axis. This tiny pop-up is the Quick Analysis tool (which you can also access using Ctrl + Q). It allowed me to create a bar chart with the selected data and then toggle settings likeStyle and Color. If I update my data, I can also use the Refresh Data option to update the table.
So it’s worth checking whether the thing you’re trying to do using Python is possible with simpler Excel functions and features.
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You’ll need both Python and Excel knowledge to get the most out of the integration
I didn’t get much done
While I was able to get a few things done using Python in Excel, my productivity was greatly constrained by my lack of familiarity with Python and the best Excel features. While I’ve used Excel since I was in school, it has mostly been for simple spreadsheets.
Acquainting yourself with the advanced features of both platforms will ensure that you can get a lot more done. For example, you can combine Excel formulas with Python scripts to automate the creation of reports.
Having a well-rounded knowledge of both platforms also lets you know which use cases suit each platform best.
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You can use mock documents from Microsoft to learn
These give you datasets to work with
One thing I like about Microsoft’s resources for learning the features of its software is that the company often provides examples you can work with. When you first get started with Python in Excel, the software will prompt you to learn more about how you can use it.
This is a useful resource for acquainting yourself with the syntax and functions of Python in Excel. It includes sample data as well as example DataFrames and Series. It also walks you through creating charts using Python. If you want to learn how to use the programming language in Excel, I recommend starting there.
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It takes time to learn Python in Excel
While it’s easy enough to get started using Python libraries in Excel, unlocking the full potential of the tool will require you to get acquainted with both Python and Excel functions. If you’re like me and don’t have any real coding experience, you should set aside time to get acquainted with the programming language and how it can be used in Excel. Take your time, though, since diving into everything Python can do can get overwhelming fast.
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source: https://www.xda-developers.com/use-python-in-excel-with-no-coding-experience/
