Milestone map
Milestone map
3 milestones
Identify skill gaps and master the five core advanced functions
4 weeks
Assess your current Excel or Google Sheets proficiency against a target skill list and identify the highest-leverage gaps. Then build competency in the five functions that underpin financial analysis: INDEX MATCH (replacing VLOOKUP), dynamic array formulas (FILTER, UNIQUE, SEQUENCE), NPV/IRR/XIRR for investment returns, pivot tables with calculated fields, and named ranges with structured references. Practice each on a real small dataset before moving to integration.
Proof required
A practice workbook demonstrating each of the five functions with real data and a brief annotation explaining what each formula does and why — not just screenshots of formula outputs.
What gets checked
- All five function areas demonstrated with working formulas in a real workbook
- Each formula annotated explaining why it is used rather than a simpler alternative
- Formulas applied to real data, not illustrative toy examples
Common mistakes
- Learning functions in isolation rather than building a coherent model — individual formula knowledge does not transfer to real financial analysis without integration practice
- Skipping dynamic arrays (FILTER, UNIQUE, SEQUENCE) because they are unfamiliar — these now underpin most advanced financial spreadsheet work
- Practising on template data that requires no formula reasoning, producing rote knowledge rather than transferable skill
Resources
Foundationstart here
Depthgo deeper
What a verifier looks for
- Open the workbook and verify each function area is represented with a working formula (not hardcoded values)
- Spot-check at least one formula: change an input and confirm the output updates correctly
Build a complete integrated financial analysis model
4 weeks
Build a complete analytical model on a real dataset demonstrating all five skill areas working together — for example, a portfolio performance tracker using XIRR for return calculations, FILTER to isolate date ranges, INDEX MATCH for security lookups, pivot analysis for sector attribution, and structured table references throughout. The model must be self-documenting: inputs clearly separated from calculations, no hardcoded constants buried in formulas.
Proof required
Shared workbook link or export showing the complete model with labelled input section, calculation engine, and output/dashboard — formula bar visible in screenshots for key cells.
What gets checked
- All five function areas integrated in a single coherent model
- Inputs separated from calculations with clear structure (not one-formula-per-cell spaghetti)
- Model updates correctly when inputs are changed — no hardcoded constants in formula cells
Common mistakes
- Building a model that only works for the exact data it was built with — no input flexibility, no ability to change date ranges or assets
- Mixing inputs, calculations, and outputs in the same cells, making the model impossible to audit
- Over-engineering with VBA or macros before mastering native formula approaches — most financial analysis tasks do not require VBA
Resources
Foundationstart here
What a verifier looks for
- Change a key input (date range, a rate, or a lookup value) and confirm the model updates correctly
- Verify the model structure separates inputs from calculations — look for a dedicated inputs sheet or range
Present the model to a financial Excel user for live Q&A
1 week
Present your model to someone who uses Excel or Sheets for financial analysis professionally — a financial analyst, accountant, or FP&A professional — and walk through your formula choices with them asking live questions. The Q&A must probe why you used each function rather than a simpler alternative and whether the model structure is audit-ready. Document the session with notes on what was challenged and what you changed or would change.
Proof required
Q&A session notes (200+ words) documenting the presenter, their background, questions they raised, and specific changes you made or would make to the model based on their feedback.
What gets checked
- Reviewer has genuine financial Excel experience (not a general Excel user)
- At least three specific formula or design choices were challenged during Q&A
- Documented changes or improvement notes result from the session
Common mistakes
- Asking a general Excel user rather than a financial analyst — the Q&A only catches formula correctness, not analytical design
- Preparing scripted answers that prevent the reviewer from probing genuinely unexpected areas
- Not implementing any feedback, which signals the review was performative rather than genuine
Resources
Foundationstart here
What a verifier looks for
- Confirm the reviewer's financial background (at minimum, uses Excel for financial analysis in a professional context)
- Review the Q&A notes — verify at least three genuine formula or design challenges are documented, not just 'looks good'
- Check that the candidate's response to feedback is substantive, not dismissive
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