Uses and importance of sensitivity analysis. Sensitivity analysis in model design. Manual sensitivities. Automatic sensitivity analysis. DataTables. One-way analysis. Two-way analysis. Sensitivity analysis in time-based forecasts. Using GoalSeek. Common calculations and modelling structures. Growth-based forecasting, ratio-driven calculations, mapping historical data and forecast assumptions, logic reversals, corkscrews and reverse corkscrews.
Function basics. Limitations of arithmetic operations and the need for functions. Entering functions into a cell. Information functions. Determining the nature of cell content. Distinguishing numbers, text, logical items, blanks and errors.
Summation, aggregation and ordering. Commonalities and differences between functions and arithmetic. Sums, counts, products, powers, maxima, and ordered values. Logical functions. Functions to implement logic, conditionality, and comparisons. Exclusive and chained conditionality. Distinguishing logical items from text. Use of logical items as inputs to functions and formulas. Conditional aggregations. Conditional summation and related items.
Function-based common modelling calculations and structures. Flag variables, linear and non-linear allocations, and triangles. Automated updating with new data. Waterfalls for general purpose allocations to categories, and for capital-return allocation purposes. Introduction to financial statement forecasting models; creating credible balancing.
Lookup and reference functions. Further modelling structures calculations, and applications in time-based modelling, flags, payback analysis, data analysis, triangles, scenario analysis, scenario decks, and variance analysis. Array functions and dynamic arrays. Dynamic output ranges. Bespoke calculations in finance, data analysis and statistics.