The database capabilities of Excel are very powerful. In fact, not only can Excel be used to create a simple searchable database, it also can be used to create a proper relational database.

Drop-down lists in Excel let you create a list of valid choices that you can select for a given field. We'll show you how to use tables, named ranges, formulas, data validation, and table styles.

Use INDEX and MATCH for simple database queries in Excel The bigger your spreadsheet, the more you need these, which you can combine with SUM, AVERAGE, and MAX to refine your searches.

You can quickly create your spreadsheet and have it shared within a few minutes. The only downside is that you have to cut and paste your data, rather than import an Excel file directly.