Data Cleaning Checklist

There are, and some are fine. The difference is what has been checked. This file was built from scratch, then every formula in it was recalculated by a separate checker that compares each result against an independently worked-out answer — 4 of them here. A template that looks right and totals wrong is worse than no template at all, and that is the usual failing of one downloaded from a search result.

It also opens with sample rows already filled in, so you can see every formula working before you touch it, and it is set up to print without fighting the page setup. No email wall, no signup, no watermark, and you can use it commercially.

Most analysis mistakes start with data that was never checked. This Excel data cleaning checklist sets out twelve checks to work through before you analyse a dataset — from blank rows and stray spaces to duplicates, merged cells and hidden data — each with a note on why it matters.

Mark each check Yes, No or N/A as you go, and the progress summary shows checks complete, not applicable, still outstanding and the percentage complete.

Work top to bottom before analysing anything. Mark each check Yes, No or N/A — completion tracks itself.

The file opens with sample rows so you can see every formula working before you change anything. Type your own figures over them. When you need more rows, insert them inside the existing block rather than underneath it, so the totals keep covering every row.