PointeBlog

2011-02-17T14:12:00.000-08:00

_________________________________

In This Issue

- Microsoft Excel Resources
- Excel Productivity Tips
- Upcoming Learning Events
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Find. Click. Learn. Achieve.

Brandpointe provides easy and accessible tools to adapt Excel to your technology environment. Untie the Ribbon and seamlessly migrate to 2010 with the Excel Task Reference Guide and related course materials.

Request a complimentary copy of the Word, Excel or Powerpoint guide:
http://tinyurl.com/26xnscr

Excel Productivity - Managing Discovery Data

Three thousand patients in a single worksheet.
- How many patients were age sixty and over?
- Which patients had received a certain medicine dosage?
- What hospital had the highest fatalities?
- How many patients had recovered from recent surgery?

Paralegals at a local law firm contacted us for assistance with trial preparation for a medical malpractice case. They filtered the worksheet and manually counted the list. As new entries were added and deleted, however, manually counting data was daunting and time-consuming. The file began with 279 patients, but as the case grew, more data was added to the file.

Brandpointe met the trial team and helped them create formulas and structure the data for easy access and review.

To get a recurring total of patients over the age of 60, and other filtered data, we showed the team how to use COUNTIF and other functions to view the data. We added names to specific ranges, tables, and showed the paralegal clerk how to quickly enter new information using a data form.

As part of the upgrade to Office 2010, the firm requested the Excel Task Reference Guide and course segments to ensure a successful transition. Attorneys, paralegals and administrative staff access the guide and course content anytime, in or out of the office, for independent review. Demonstration videos provide the processes for data entry and management for the firm's trial and appellate related workflow.

Learning Event - Spring 2010
ASTD - Learning Transfer Conference
http://tinyurl.com/4u9vzdf

Texas Distance Learning Association
Annual Convention
http://tinyurl.com/4e99aoz

Quotes:
Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.
- Chinese Proverb
Learning without thought is labor lost.
- Confucius
_________________________________
Contact the learning specialists at Brandpointe to successfully configure and adapt Microsoft Excel. We're certified experts and instructors, who organize and clarify the new program interface and features.
www.brandpointeonline.com

Points and Views

2010-12-29T08:36:00.000-08:00

In this Issue:
• Adobe Captivate
- Distance Learning Course
• Microsoft Word 2010
- Keyboard Shortcuts
- Building Blocks
_______________________
♦ Adobe Captivate
Our clients and colleagues requested it, and we've developed a distance learning course for Adobe Captivate. The course provides the flexible tools to create effective, engaging content, and is offered via Ovation, our global learning site. Students work independently, complete the course segments at their own pace, and have ongoing instructor collaboration.

View Course Information - (pdf)

♦ Microsoft Word 2010
New Word 2010 users look for familiar options as they learn to navigate the Ribbon. We start our migration classes by describing the Ribbon as a large circle that pivots and stops according to the currently selected tab, displaying specific functions for that tab. As students assimilate the new interface, we provide the old and new keyboard shortcuts for faster feature access.

Use Keyboard Shortcuts for Ribbon Options - Press the Alt key to display all shortcuts. To select a tab or option, press Alt and the letter or number.

Making the Move - Common Shortcuts
Files:
Close - Alt W
Open - Ctrl O
Print - Ctrl F2
Recent Documents - Alt FR
Save - Ctrl S
Save As - F12

Current Word Distance Learning Courses - (pdf)

♦ Building Blocks
Word 2010 includes a building blocks template containing preformatted objects. AutoText is included in the building blocks family, which contains galleries for Quick Parts, Headers/Footers, Page Numbering, Table of Contents, Equations, Bibliographies, Text Boxes, Tables, and Watermarks.

Add An Entry
1. Select the document text.
2. Press the Alt F3 keys.
3. Select a Category and click Ok.

Insert An Entry
1. The Ribbon - Insert, Quick Parts
2. Keyboard: Alt NQ
3. Type the first few letters of the entry. Press the F3 key.

Rename an Entry for Easier Retrieval
1. The Ribbon - Insert, Quick Parts, Building Blocks Organizer
2. Keyboard: Alt NQB
3. Locate the entry and click the Edit Properties button.

Use the Building Blocks Organizer
1. The Ribbon - Insert, Quick Parts, Building Blocks Organizer
2. Keyboard: Alt NQB
3. Click and sort the column titles to view entries.
4. Select an entry and click the Insert button.

Quotes of the Week:
"Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler."
- Albert Einstein
"It is better to know some of the questions than all of the answers."
- James Thurber
_______________________

Brandpointe
The learning specialists at Brandpointe clarify and adapt technology. Contact us for information regarding our programs and services - www.brandpointeonline.com.

Points and Views

2010-11-29T18:17:00.000-08:00

In This Issue:
- Word Master Class
- Distance Learning - January 2011
- Events

Word Master Class - Many of our clients are professional services groups with ongoing client service priorities. Technology has to be clear, focused and effective. Migrating and configuring Microsoft Office products has to fit and provide results. Brandpointe provides the technical knowledge that ensures successful rollouts and staff instruction.

The Master Class is designed for individuals who produce and format complex documents or provide technical support for Word 2010. We review and clarify the Template Hierarchy, Galleries, File Formats, Formatting and Configuration standards. Students learn at their location, and complete course segments at their own pace.

Distance Learning:
Our successful E-Learning program provides customized, flexibility courses. Students learn independently, with ongoing instructor collaboration. Tools and materials are structured for easy access and usage, and include course workbooks, reference sheets, quick notes, recap checklists and assessments.
January 2011 Courses - (pdf)

Events
Training 2011 - Conference and Expo
February 4-8
San Diego, California
http://www.trainingconference.com

Quotes for the Week:
I am always ready to learn although I do not always like being taught. ~Winston Churchill

The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn. ~Alvin Toffler

Contact the education specialists at Brandpointe for continuing education and workforce training. We offer JobReady career preparation for Administrative Specialists and Litigation Support Specialists. WorkReady programs help employees build job performance.

www.brandpointeonline.com

Ovation News

2010-09-13T06:48:00.000-07:00

In This Issue:
- Association Events
- Continuing Education Courses
- Brandpointe Briefings
- This Week's Quotes

Association Events:
Administrative Professionals Conference
October 3-6, Las Vegas NV
http://tinyurl.com/2fw4xjo

Continuing Education Courses:
Business Skills Course - Customer Service Management
Designed for administrative and front-line employees. The course includes four learning segments incorporating key concepts, role simulation, communications techniques and service recovery practices.

Module 1 - Service Basics
Download (pdf)

Cloud Solutions for Employee Education - Part 1
Brandpointe helps our clients develop educational tools for employee job performance. We assess topics, workflow, client service requirements, individual learning styles and key management objectives. We collaborate and plan methods, tools and resources to deliver information, and build required skills.

With more organizations creating web-based training solutions, we're showing clients that learning in the cloud can be an effective tool.

Key Development Factors:
- What concepts and knowledge are necessary?
- Which skill proficiences are required?
- How do we identify and measure these components?
- How is this accomplished with our dispersed physical locations?
- How do we accommodate varied work schedules?

Case Study:
Training Day Program For Engineers Located on Two Continents - (pdf)

eLearning Briefing:
Topyx -
Implementing a Successful Learning Management System
9/23 and 10/14
Registration: http://tinyurl.com/2eoq57x

Review Topyx, a Moodle-based system with full reporting and social networking capabilities. It provides a seamless, turnkey solution for web-based learning. Our LMS has provided an excellent resource for managing program activities.

Session participants receive a copy of an Office 2010 course module, and our updated elearning kit.

This Week's Quotes:
Yogi Berra's instruction for spring training drills - "Pair off in threes."
"As long as you're going to be thinking anyway, think big."
- Donald Trump

Contact Brandpointe:

214.233.6594 - Course Registrar
helpdesk@brandpointeline.com

Ovation News

2010-08-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

News and Events:
E-Learning Briefing: - Review distance learning processes and Topyx, a learning management system. Topyx provides options for managing users and courses, and customized reporting capability.

E-Learning Management With Topyx - 9/23/10
Register for the online event - helpdesk@brandpointeonline.com.

WorkReady - Continuing Education
Distance Learning - Register for Office 2010 or Adobe Captivate sessions through Ovation. Call our course registration line at 214.233.6594, or contact us via e-mail - helpdesk@brandpointeonline.com.

Current Distance Learning Courses (pdf)

Office 2010 Making the Move - Is your organization making the move? Use our courses and tools for successful migration to Office 2010.

Microsoft Word 2010
Demo Video Tutorial - Headers and Footers - (pdf)

JobReady - Career Programs
Litigation Support Specialist - Open enrollment: Current program begins August 30, 2010. Our LSS program is now offered via Ovation. Acquire the knowledge and software skills required in today's evolving legal environment. Program Brochure - (pdf).

Contacts:
Event or Course Registration - helpdesk@brandpointeonline.com
Courseware - pbcoleman@brandpointeonline.com
Career Programs - jbrand@brandpointeonline.com

This week's quotes:
Live as if your were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. - Gandhi

When you know something, say what you know. When you don't know something, say that you don't know. That is knowledge. - Confucius

Ovation News

2010-08-04T13:16:00.000-07:00

WorkReady - Continuing Education

Distance Learning

Brandpointe offers software education - anytime anywhere. Learning tools are downloaded from Ovation, our global learning community. Download courseware, and upload completed materials.

Chart progress with activity reports and updates. Communicate with instructors via e-mail, telephone or Skype.

Instructor Availability:
Monday - Friday (8:30am-5:00pm)

Summer Course Listings:

http://tinyurl.com/2g8hxng

Office 2010 - Making The Move

Microsoft Word - This Week's Demo Lesson and Video

http://tinyurl.com/26wyuzh

Association Events - August 2010:

ILTA 2010 - Strategic Unity

http://conference.iltanet.org

Follow ILTA events on ILTA TV - http://ow.ly/2jHp3

JobReady - Career Programs

Updated Student Roster:

Carolyn Redic joins the Administrative Specialist program. It includes Microsoft and Adobe software training, extensive typing tutorials, English Grammar and Professional Development courses.

Welcome, Carolyn!

Quotes of the Week:

"Ninety percent of this game is half mental." - Yogi Berra

"Sandwich every bit of criticism between two layers of praise."
- Mary Kay Ash

Contacts:

Distance Learning - jbrand@brandpointeonline.com
Technical Support/Project Assistance - helpdesk@brandpointeonline.com

Office 2010 - Making The Move

2010-06-23T10:40:00.000-07:00

Microsoft Outlook provides layered options for managing electronic mail, contacts, events and projects. Getting started with basic concepts is an important step to user adoption and productivity.

Brandpointe provides tools for Office 2010 migration. Our course packages are easy to use for both structured classroom sessions - or independent study.

This week's demonstration video - Outlook 2010 Basics
Click Here To Take the Quiz!

Contents:

1. Index Page
Learners view navigational links to materials.

2. Lesson Worksheets
Knowledge Tools: Review pages, exercises and projects.

3. Demonstration Videos
Adobe Flash files to enhance learning.

4. Student Checklist
List of objectives and competencies.

5. Glossary
Master list of concepts and terminology.

6. Quick Reference Guide
Topical guide for use after course completion.

Join our global learning community at www.beovation.com.
Create an account and download the Outlook 2010 demonstration.

Course Segments:
Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, and OneNote

Acrobat 9 - Single Key Access to Tools

2010-06-07T13:38:00.000-07:00

Single key accelerators provide easy access to tools that manage content in Acrobat files.

Activate single-key accelerators:
Top Menu: Edit, Preferences, General Tab
Select - Use single-key accelerators to access tools.

Single Keys
Navigation and Selection:
H - Hand
V - Select Text
R - Select Object

Text and Objects:
C - Crop
F - Forms*
G - Snapshot
K - Stamp
L - Link
M - Movie*
P - Callout
S - Note*
T - TouchUp Text*
U - Highlight Text*

* Note: These tools provide multiple options. To select other options, press Shift and the single key.

Brandpointe - Solutions for the New Workforce - The specialists at Brandpointe provide tools, tips and instructional aids to maximize your investment in Adobe Acrobat. Follow us on Twitter and join our Global Learning Community for updates on Acrobat web sessions and events.

Learning Community - www.beovation.com

Adobe Acrobat 9 - Navigational Tools for Legal Documents - Part 1

2010-05-13T16:09:00.000-07:00

PDF is a perfect file type for documents associated with SEC filings, complex agreements, joint ventures and patent registrations. These documents often contain inserted objects, images and tables, and go through extensive review cycles. Acrobat contains effective tools to navigate, collaborate and review the files associated with these practice areas.

1. The Power of Bookmarks and Destinations!

Bookmarks:

Function: Use Bookmarks to define specific pages in an Acrobat file, or perform specific actions when the bookmark is accessed.

Benefits: An instant, viewable roadmap to document contents. Bookmarks may be linked to web pages, external Acrobat files, or Destinations.

Location: Navigation Pane

(A) Create Bookmark
Select the New Bookmark icon in the Navigation Pane.
(Keyboard Shortcut - Ctrl B)

(B) Define a Bookmark Action
Right click the Bookmark name in the Navigation Pane - and select Properties, Action Tab.

2. Destinations:

Function: Mark specific document page locations. Destinations retain their location, even if the target page number changes.

Location: Navigation Pane
Right click in the Pane and select Destinations.

**Dock the Destinations Panel - View, Navigation Panels - Dock All Panels **

(A) Create a Destination:
Select the Create New Destination icon in the Navigation Pane.

(B) Sort Destinations:
Use the Options link at the top of the panel.

Benefits: Destinations also provide a navigational map, and can be sorted by name or page location. If their page location changes, the Destination updates to reflect the new page number.

The specialists at Brandpointe provide tools, tips and instructional aids to maximize your investment in Adobe Acrobat. Acrobat training is provided in our Legal Assistant and Litigation Support Specialist programs. Follow us on Twitter and join our Global Learning Community for updates on Acrobat web sessions and events.

Learning Community - www.beovation.com

Twitter Apps and Utilities

2010-04-24T10:58:00.000-07:00

Friend or Follow
View thumbnails for followers - and those you follow.
www.friendorfollow.com

Giga Tweet
Count the total number of Tweets.
http://popacular.com/gigatweet

Mr. Tweet
Personalize Twitter Connections.
www.mrtweet.com

Name Check
Check your Twitter name availability for other social cites.
http://namechk.com

Re:Tweetist
Track retweets across Twitter.
www.retweetist.com

Social Mention
Analyze your social presence across mutiple sites.
www.socialmention.com

Tweet Cloud
Create a tag cloud for any subject.
www.tweetcloud.com

TweetDeck
Custom viewer for your tweets.
www.tweetdeck.com

TwitPay
Social media payment service.
www.twitpay.com

Twitter Counter
Track your follower stats.
www.twittercounter.com

Twitter RSS Creator
Create RSS feeds for your lists.
http://twiterlist2rss.appspot.com/

**Other Twitter Apps - Smashing Magazine
http://tinyurl.com/c5v5z3

Brandpointe provides innovative solutions for a diverse workforce. Join our global learning community - www.beovation.com

View current instructional programs and activities - www.brandpointeonline.com

Adult Learners - Part 2

2010-04-11T11:49:00.001-07:00

Learning Directed By An Instructor/Facilitator:
Outline and Demonstrate Specific Tasks - Clarify what skills or proficiencies should be gained. Give learners time to review and complete those tasks individually.

Review Concepts and Terms Associated With Those Tasks - Link them with specific objectives.

Allow Open Discussion Periods - Detail the relationship between objectives and performance.

Examine Problems, Roadblocks and Solutions - Draw on the experience and knowledge of participants. Invite SMEs (Subject Matter Experts) to review solutions and scenarios.

Recap and Document - Use quick reference tools to continue knowledge transfer and achievement.

Join the Brandpointe Global Learning Community
Blog - Share - Learn - www.beovation.com

Adult Learners - Part 1

2010-03-30T13:51:00.000-07:00

Adult Learners:
Are Autonomous And Self-Directed
They may be skeptical about new information, and may test or review it before acceptance.
Goals: Offer a variety of learning activities that promote acceptance and engagement.

Have Accumulated A Foundation Of Life Experiences
New information is compared or integrated with past problems or goals.
Goals: Integrate new and existing theories and concepts. Review problem solvers and successes.

Are Relevancy Oriented
Learning should feel self-directed and individually driven. They seek solutions to their perceived needs.
Goals: Identify individual learning styles. Match needs with activities. Measure outcomes.

Join the Brandpointe Global Learning Community
Network - Blog - Share
www.beovation.com

Training Tips and Best Practices

2010-03-15T15:13:00.000-07:00

1. Distribute Topical Checklists - Reinforce learning and checkpoint objectives.

2. Use Task Recaps - Review key topics to boost the learning cycle.

3. Present Case Studies and Examples - Use case studies and on the job examples to detail processes and procedures.

4. Experienced Students and "Mavericks" - Challenge session "gurus" with more complex activities. Let them go "solo", and assess their progress.

5. Collaborate With Subject Matter Experts (SME) - Partner with group specialists and experts to development course content and target educational activities.

6. Create Teams - Invigorate lecture or discussion sessions by assigning key concepts and terms to individual groups.

7. Distibute Post-Session Class Notes - Provide notes that pinpoint objectives and detail key topics.

8. Go Green - Create assessments in Adobe Acrobat. Enable the Typewriter Tool for Adobe Reader students to add their responses.

9. Course Portfolios - Use Adobe Acrobat to bundle materials. Create portfolios that contain objectives, assessments, demo videos and related materials.

10. Program Development - Use this four step process to approach learning activities: Assess, Develop, Deploy, and Review.

11. Cut Courseware Bloat - Create individual segments and modules designed for specific groups.

12. Management Interaction - Keep managers in the loop. Document and share progress, connecting it to firm goals and performance.

13. Network Management - Maintain relationships with systems administrators. Discuss and review activities that affect training.

14. Create Student "Learning Cycles" - Target specific skills, concepts and terminology. Review milestones, assess activities and make recommendations.

15. Brand and Market Training Activities - Make achievement and accountability key components.

Join the Brandpointe Global Learning Community
Network - Blog - Share
beovation.com

Microsoft Powerpoint - The Masters

2010-02-08T10:04:00.000-08:00

Set Global Defaults for Slides, Handouts and Notes
PowerPoint 2007

1. SLIDE MASTER:

Ribbon: Press Alt W, M
Status Bar Hot Spot: Shift + Normal Slide Icon

This is the "default" or prototype slide. Objects added to the Slide Master display on each newly created slide.

Common Uses:

Headers and Footers
Logos and Images
Titles and Headings

**Create multiple masters in a single PowerPoint file:
Ribbon: Press Alt W, M - Select - Insert Slide Master

Each newly inserted master displays a new number. To apply a different master, select it from the list in the left pane.

2. HANDOUT MASTER:

Ribbon: Press Alt W, H
Status Bar Hot Spot: Shift + Slide Sorter Icon
Handouts are printed thumbnail images of slides in a presentation. They are often distributed to meeting participants, or used for slide navigation by presenters. The Handout Master sets defaults for headers and footers, fonts, page orientation - or the number of slides per page.

**Print Handouts:
Ctrl P, Print What - Handouts

2. NOTES MASTER:

Ribbon: Press Alt W, H
Notes contain optional text. Presenters often use the text to script and navigate a presentation. Notes may also be printed and distributed to meeting participants.

**Create and Print Notes:
Ribbon: Press Alt W, T (Notes Page)
Notes Pane: Add text in the pane below slides in Normal View.
Print Notes: Ctrl P, Print What - Notes

Join our Global Learning Community
Get PowerPoint technical information, samples and solutions.
Session Takeaways:
1. Create Professional Presentations With Impact.
2. Get Links For the Best Equipment and Tools.
3. Review Multimedia Options.

February Sessions:
Web: 2/16 and 2/25
Classroom: 2/16

Join Ovation - Our Learning Network Now!
beovation.com

Microsoft PowerPoint - Show Pizzazz

2010-01-31T10:33:00.000-08:00

Keyboard Shortcuts for Slide Show Presentations
PowerPoint 2003 and 2007

Start a Show - F5
Stop a Show - Esc
Stop Auto Running Show - S

View All Slides - Ctrl S

Go to Slide - Slide number and Enter
Go to Hidden Slide - H
Go to Next Slide - N
Go to Previous Slide - P

Display Black or White Screen - B or W
(Pauses Show - Hit Key Again to Resume)

Show Control Arrows - A

Annotate Slides During the Show
Pen - Ctrl P
Eraser - Ctrl E
Erase All Annotations - E
Display Arrow - A

Shortcut Menu - Right Click
Display Shortcut List - F1

Join our Global Learning Community
Get Powerpoint technical information, samples and solutions.

Web Session Takeaways:
1. Create Presentations With Impact.
2. Get Links for the Best Equipment and Tools.

February Sessions: 2/16 and 2/25
http://tinyurl.com/yj2wq2v

Join Ovation - Our Learning Network Now!
http://brandpointe.interactyx.com

Word Under the Hood - Part 2

2010-01-24T08:42:00.000-08:00

Tame Those Documents! - Versions 2003, 2007 and 2010

Scenarios:

1. The client emailed a file, but specific text doesn't display.
a) Print preview the document. If the text displays, there may be a white or light gray font color applied. If the text does not display, turn on the hidden text symbol.

Display Hidden Text:
2003 - Tools, Options, View Tab, Formatting Marks
2007/2010 - Office Button, Word Options, Display, and Advanced-Show Document Contents

2. Tabs don't align when a new paragraph is created.
a) Insert a soft line break. This maintains tab settings for the paragraph.

Insert Soft Line Break:
Shift and Enter Keys

3. An inserted image won't display.
a) Turn off Picture Placeholders.

Uncheck Picture Placeholders:
2003 - Tools, Options, View Tab, Show
2007/2010 - Office Button, Word Options, Display, and Advanced-Show Document Contents

4. Document pages are uneven; text runs off the page.
a) Check top and bottom margins in Page Setup.
b) Turn on symbols to see if protected paragraphs on the page.

Remove Paragraph Protection:
Right click in the paragraph and select - Paragraph, Line and Page Breaks Tab

5. The Tab key won't insert a tab.
a) Look on the ruler for column symbols. In a table, the tab key moves the cursor to the next cell.

Insert a Tab in a Table Cell:
Ctrl and Tab Keys

6. Gray shading on text doesn't delete.
a) Turn on Reveal Formatting to determine how shading was applied.
b) Was it the Highlight button or - Format, Borders and Shading?

To Remove Highlighting:
Select the text. Click the arrow next to the Highlight button and select - None.

7. How are hyphenated names kept together?

Insert a Non-Breaking Hyphen:
Ctrl Shift and Hyphen Keys

8. What is the fastest way to center align a 30 page table?
a) Use the Select Table button. (The button only displays when the cursor is in a table)

Select a Table:
Move cursor in the table. Select the button at the top left of the table.
Right click and select - Table Properties

9. Why did my document formatting change?
a) What is your current document view? Other views display text differently.

Select Print Layout View:
Alt Ctrl P Keys - or View, Print Layout

10. How can I quickly return to certain pages?
a) Use Bookmarks to flag parts of a document.

Insert Bookmarks: Menu - Insert, Bookmarks
Use Bookmarks: Ctrl G keys - Select Bookmark

View a Symbols Chart and Sample Document:
(pdf)

Join our Global Learning Community
The Microsoft certified professionals at Brandpointe can help you save time using Microsoft Word. www.brandpointeonline.com

Web Sessions Via Adobe Connect

Attend a Session.
Review Questions With An Instructor.
Download a Quick Reference Guide.

Self-Study Courses

Join Ovation, Our Online Community.
Download a Course.
Exchange Information and Solutions With Other Members.

Word Under the Hood - Part 1

2010-01-17T15:33:00.000-08:00

Tame Those Documents! - Versions 2003, 2007 and 2010

Become familiar with symbols that help you understand and control Word formatting.

Scenarios:

1. The client emailed a file, but specific text doesn't display.
2. Tabs don't align when a new paragraph is created.
3. An inserted image won't display.
4. Document pages are uneven; text runs off the page.
5. The Tab key won't insert a tab.
6. Gray shading on text doesn't delete.
7. How are hyphenated names kept together?
8. What is the fastest way to center align a 30 page table?
9. Why did my document formatting change?
10. How can I quickly return to certain pages in a lengthy contract?
(Solutions in Part 2)

View a Brief Description and Sample Document: (pdf)

Join our Global Learning Community
The Microsoft certified professionals at Brandpointe can help you save time using Microsoft Word. www.brandpointeonline.com

Web Sessions Via Adobe Connect

Attend a Session.
Review Questions With An Instructor.
Download a Quick Reference Guide.

Self-Study Courses

Join Ovation, Our Online Community.
Download a Course.
Exchange Information and Solutions With Other Members.

Excel Magic 3: Tame Those Worksheets!

2010-01-07T09:55:00.000-08:00

MICROSOFT EXCEL 2003, 2007 and 2010:
Worksheet Management

1. Insert
Keyboard - Shift F11 (All Versions)
Right click and select - Insert Worksheet (2003)
Click the Insert Worksheet Button (2007 and 2010 only)

2. Delete
Right click a sheet and select - Delete.
Note: Deleted sheets cannot be restored.

3. Move or Copy
Click and drag a sheet tab to move it to a new position between existing sheets. Right click and select Move or Copy to duplicate a sheet or move it to a different workbook.

4. Rename
Right click and select - Rename.
Note: The characters - ?\*/[ ] . : - are reserved by the system and cannot be used in a worksheet name. The word "history" is also reserved. Insert a number or underscore after the word if it must be used as a sheet name.

5. Set Tab Color - Hide or Unhide
Right click and select - Tab Color.
Hide - Right click a sheet and select - Hide.
Unhide - Right click any sheet and select - Unhide.

6. Navigate Worksheets or View a List
Navigate: Use the arrows next to the sheet tabs to go to the first, previous, next or last worksheet.

View a List of All Worksheets:
Right click the arrows next to the sheet tabs. A list of non-hidden worksheets displays.

To view both hidden and non-hidden worksheets, view File Properties.
2003 - File Properties, Contents Tab
2007-2010 - Office Button, Prepare, Properties, Document Properties, Advanced, Contents Tab

7. Format An Entire Worksheet
Select the entire worksheet - click the button above Row 1.

8. Group and Format Multiple Worksheets
Format multiple worksheets at the same time:
- Click the first worksheet tab. Hold the control key and select the other tabs. Grouped worksheets display the same white color. Right click and select - Ungroup Sheets to turn off grouping.

9. Save a Worksheet as a Template
Press the F12 key. Select - Excel Template in the Save as Type List.

10. Create Formulas to Calculate Between Worksheets
Include the sheet name before the cell range in the formula:
=SUM(Sheet1!A4,Sheet2!A4)

Join our Global Learning Community
The Microsoft certified professionals at Brandpointe can help you conquer FOE (Fear of Excel).

Quick guides, AdobeConnect sessions, Flash videos or Skype sessions with an instructor, we can provide successful tools.

Register to become a member of our online community. We provide a seamless learning experience anytime you need it, with Ovation - our global learning site. www.beovation.com

Excel Magic 2: Tame Those Columns!

2009-12-21T10:05:00.000-08:00

MICROSOFT EXCEL 2003, 2007 and 2010:
Column Formatting Top 5

1. Insert Or Delete a Column:
Select column title next to location.
Right click - Select Insert

2. Adjust Column Width:
Manual: Click and drag column title border.
AutoFit: Double click column title border.

3. Turn Column Titles On or Off
2007 and 2010 only: View, Headings.
2003 - Tools, Options, Window Options -
uncheck Row and Column Headings.

4. Hide or Unhide Columns:
Hide: Select Column. Right Click - Select Hide.
Unhide: Select Columns Next To Hidden Column.
Right click - select Unhide.

5. Group Columns to Hide/Unhide Data:
2003: Select columns - Data, Group and Outline, Group
2007-2010: Select columns - Data, Outline, Group

Note: Click the outline, plus or minus symbols to toggle the columns.

The Microsoft certified professionals at Brandpointe can help you conquer FOE (Fear of Excel).

Quick guides, AdobeConnect sessions, Flash videos or Skype sessions with an instructor, we can provide successful tools.

Register to become a member of our online community. We provide a seamless learning experience anytime you need it, with our Topyx learning site. www.brandpointeonline.com

Excel Magic: Tame Those Cells!

2009-12-14T12:32:00.000-08:00

Microsoft Excel 2003 and 2007:
Cell Formatting Top 10

Entering Data in Excel:
Cells have a limit of 32,767 characters. Although all data will show on the Formula Bar, only 1,024 characters will display or print.

1. Insert a blank line in a cell.
Alt and Enter Keys

2. Insert a tab in a cell.
Ctrl and Tab Keys

3. Wrap or Autofit text.
Wrap - Ctrl 1, Alignment Tab, Text Control
AutoFit - Double click row or column border.

4. Copy data in the cell above.
Ctrl "

5. Set vertical or horizontal alignment.
Ctrl 1, Alignment Tab, Text Alignment

6. Remove red or green triangles in a cell.
Red Triangle (Comments) - Right click, Delete Comment
Green Triangle (Error Checking) - Right click, Ignore Error

7. Add or Remove a border.
Ctrl 1 - Border Tab

8. Lock a cell.
Select Cell - Ctrl 1, Protection, Locked
2007 - Right click Sheet tab, select Protect Sheet
2003 - Tools, Protection, Protect Sheet

9. Display only certain cells.
(Select cells)
2007 - View, Workbook Views, Custom View
2003 - View, Custom View

10. AutoFill multiple cells (for months, days or number series)
(Select cells)
Click and drag the small black box at the end of the selection.

Contact the Microsoft certified professionals at Brandpointe for technical support, configuration options or training for Microsoft Excel. Test drive our new web-based learning community. Learn Microsoft Excel at your own pace from any computer. www.brandpointeonline.com

Fabulous Font Menu in Word 2010

2009-12-06T11:57:00.000-08:00

New Word Version Takes Font Capability Higher:
Along with other software, Brandpointe uses Microsoft Word to create a variety of training and marketing materials. We're excited about the enhancements and font flexibility added to Word 2010.

1. Added Text Effects: Glow/Soft Edges, Gradient Fill, Reflection, More 3-D and Outline options.

2. OpenType Settings: Provides a crossover between TrueType and Type 1 - for ligatures and really impressive font formatting.

3. Bonus Option: Create great looking documents and save them as PDF files. Word 2010 includes the format in Save As options.

Contact the Word certified professionals at Brandpointe for technical support, configuration options or training for Microsoft Word. Test drive our new web-based learning site. Learn Microsoft Word at your own pace from any computer. www.brandpointeonline.com

Keep a Permanent List of Recent Documents

2009-11-30T07:56:00.000-08:00

Word 2007

1. Click the Office Button.
2. In the list of recent documents, click the pin icon on the right side of the file name to save or unsave it.

Modify the Number of Recent Documents Displayed:
Office Button, Word Options, Advanced, Display - the maximum is 50 documents.

Remove a File From the List:
To clear the entire list, set the display option to "0".
To clear a single entry, edit the registry -
HK_Current_User - Software - Microsoft - Office - 12 - Word - FileMRU

Word 2003

1. Add the Work Menu to the Menu Bar.
2. Select Tools, Customize from the top menu.
3. Click the Commands Tab.
4. In the left column, scroll down to the option - Build-in Menus.
5. In the right column, scroll down and locate the Work option.
6. Click and drag it to the Menu Bar.
7. When you close Word, click "Yes" to save the Normal template.

Add a Document:
Open the document.
Click the Work Menu and select - Add to Work Menu.

Remove a Document:
Click the Alt Ctrl - (minus) buttons.
The cursor displays a large hyphen symbol.
Click the document in the Work Menu to remove it.

*Word 2003 holds a maximum of nine (9) documents on the Work Menu.

Contact the Word certified professionals at Brandpointe for technical support, configuration options or training for Microsoft Word. Test drive our new web-based learning site. Learn Microsoft Word at your own pace from any computer. www.brandpointeonline.com

2009-11-23T11:33:00.001-08:00

Microsoft Outlook Productivity
Use Ctrl K for Recipient Names

Type Ctrl K on the To: line, and Outlook autocompletes names from the list of recently sent recipients. If there are duplicates or name conflicts with your Contacts, a dialog box displays for you to select the correct name.

How are Names Added To The List?
Each time you send a new message, Outlook adds the recipients to a temporary file with a nk2 file extension. *If you send to an incorrect address, it is also added to the list.

Delete Names From the AutoComplete Drop Down List
Type the first few characters of a recipient name on the To: line. When the name displays, use the up or down arrows on the keyboard to select it. When the name is highlighted, press the Delete key.

How Do I Turn AutoComplete Off?
Tools, Options, Preferences
E-mail Options Button
Advanced E-mail Options
Uncheck - Suggest Names When Completing To:, cc: or bcc: fields.

Can I Edit The Temp File Directly?
There are add-ons that will do that, however, there is no option in Outlook. NirSoft has a freeware utility to edit the file.

Can I Delete The Entire File?
Rename the file instead of deleting it. This maintains the list if you ever need it again. Run a Windows search for the file. Type *.nk2 as the file to search for. Select the file and press the F2 key. Rename the .nk2 to .bak.

Brandpointe is your single source solution for learning programs and technical support. Register for December or January productivity boot camps for Microsoft and Adobe programs. www.brandpointeonline.com

Copy Pages Between Acrobat Files

2009-11-15T12:28:00.000-08:00

Acrobat Workflow Solutions - Part 1
Pagination

Task: You need to copy pages between opened Acrobat files.

Here's how to do it:

1. In Acrobat, tile the open files vertically.

2. Top Menu: Windows - Tile Vertically

3. In the left pane, click the Pages tab for each file. Pages display as thumbnails.

4. To select a page, click its thumbnail. A border around the thumbnail indicates the selection.

5. Note: To select multiple pages, hold the Shift Key and click each individual thumbnail. To select all pages, press Ctrl A.

6. Click in a selected thumbnail, and drag to the target file. All selected pages will copy to the target file, but remain in their original location.

7. Use File, Save As to save the newly added pages.

8. To delete pages in the original file, go to the Pages tab for that file. Right click the page thumbnail and select - Delete Pages.

Contact Brandpointe for solutions, quick reference guides, courseware and technical support for Adobe Acrobat.

www.brandpointeonline.com

Save Multimedia Files From Web Pages

2009-11-05T11:06:00.000-08:00

You like the flash file you've just viewed, and want to save a copy. There may be related security or design issues that prevent downloading, otherwise, these steps may help you save the file to your own computer.

*Internet Explorer
Open the page containing the multimedia you want to save.
Multimedia files are cached to a Temp Folder.

Access: In IE, select Tools, Internet Options, Settings, View Files.
Scroll through the file list to locate the file(s). Copy to a different folder, such as the Desktop or My Documents.

*Firefox
Open the page containing the multimedia you want to save.

Access: Right click in a blank area on the web page.
Select - View Page Info. Click the Media icon in the top box.
Scroll through the list in the Address Box.
Click the file and select - Save As.

*Safari (MAC or Windows)
This link details the steps: http://tinyurl.com/6efa5o

View November's course calendar, or get info about job performance training and services: www.brandpointeonline.com

How Do You Create and Manage Electronic Content?

2009-10-31T15:03:00.000-07:00

Discover tools and efficient ways to create, organize and locate electronic data.

Brandpointe has the learning tools for paperless productivity.

In November, explore options for using Adobe Acrobat to maximize your information.

- Electronic Forms
- The Total Paperless Process
- Acrobat for Architects, Engineers and the Construction Industry

Ready for Distance Learning?

2009-10-31T14:36:00.000-07:00

You've decided to implement e-learning, so what's the next step?

Brandpointe can take you there, and ensure you design the right system with relevant, effective content.

Request our e-learning toolkit and view sample course materials.

elearning@brandpointe.com

2009-10-26T09:51:00.000-07:00

Microsoft Excel Productivity

Set Custom Views for easier navigation.
Saved views display the information plus the zoom default setting.

1. Select the view area.
2. Excel 2003: Select View, Custom View, Add from the top menu.
3. Excel 2007: In the top menu, select View, Custom View (in Workbook Views) and Add.

For easy access, add the Custom Views box to a toolbar in 2003, or to the Quick Access toolbar in 2007.

To fix Custom View errors, disable autofilters, worksheet protection and the caps lock key.

Contact the Brandpointe HD services team for help with Microsoft Excel setup, configuration and training - www.brandpointeonline.com.

2009-10-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

Microsoft Access Productivity:

Load a Data Entry Form Automatically When Access Opens

Version 2007
1. Click the Office Button (left corner), Access Options (bottom right)
2. Click Database Category.
3. Under Applications Options, choose Display Form. Select Entry Form.

Version 2003
1. Select Tools, Startup from the top menu.
2. Click in the Display Form/Page box. Click Arrow and Select Form.