Summary  
This chapter introduces data modeling as the process of organizing a flat table into multiple related tables with defined relationships and using tools like Power Pivot and DAX measures to enable flexible analysis without altering the original data.  

General domain of usage  
Business intelligence and reporting

### What is Data Modeling in Excel?
Most Excel users start with a flat table — all data in one place, one sheet, one block of rows and columns. That works fine for simple lookups. It breaks down the moment you need to answer several different business questions from the same data without rewriting formulas every time.

Data modeling solves this by splitting data into separate tables, each with one job, and connecting them through defined relationships. Instead of one large sheet that does everything, you get a structured model that can answer any question you point at it — without touching the underlying data.

Core tools in this course:
- Power Pivot;
- Table relationships;
- DAX measures;
- Pivot tables & charts.

Starting from Section 3, the course requires Power Pivot and the Excel data model — features that are only available on **Windows Excel** (Microsoft 365 Personal/Business/Enterprise, or standalone Excel 2016, 2019, or 2021). 

Excel for Mac, Excel Online, and Microsoft 365 Home do not include Power Pivot or Data model. 

Note

Learn how to turn raw Excel data into a connected data model with Power Pivot, DAX measures, and an interactive dashboard that updates automatically. Starting from a flat table, you will build relationships between multiple tables, write calculated metrics, and deliver a polished, reusable report — all inside Excel.
Suitable for Excel users with basic experience who want to move beyond flat-sheet reporting.

An introduction to what data modeling is, why it matters, and what you will build throughout the course. You will meet the Nordic Bikes project and see the finished dashboard before writing a single formula.

Before building a model, your data needs the right structure. This section covers how to split flat data into clean, purpose-built tables with proper keys, consistent formatting, and clear separation between facts and dimensions.

The core technical section of the course. You will enable Power Pivot, load your tables into the data model, connect them with relationships, and learn how to spot and fix the problems that break a model silently.

Learn to write calculations that go far beyond what Excel formulas can do alone. From basic KPI measures to time intelligence functions, this section builds the analytical layer that powers your reporting.

Turn your model into a finished product. You will build pivot tables that answer real business questions, convert them into charts, and assemble everything into an interactive dashboard controlled by shared slicers.

A structured review of what makes a model reliable, clear, and ready to hand over. The section closes with a capstone project where you apply every skill from the course end to end.

Course Overview

What is Data Modeling in Excel?