2024-04-23 –, A05-A06
Python in Excel is the new integration created by Microsoft that brings Python programming directly into Excel workbooks, for advanced data analytics. With Python in Excel, it is now possible to embed Python code directly into workbook cells, very easily, and with zero setup required.
In this tutorial, we will explore the many features and capabilities this new integration provides, to unlock unprecedented data science and machine learning use cases in Excel.
Python in Excel is the new integration created by Microsoft that brings Python programming directly into Excel workbooks, for advanced data analytics.
With Python in Excel, it is now possible to embed Python code directly into workbook cells, very easily, and with zero setup required. In fact, all the Python code runs automatically in the Microsoft Cloud, and leverages on the Python Anaconda Distribution to get immediate access to a vast selection of packages to unlock unprecedented use cases in data science, data visualization, and machine learning.
The output of each execution is automatically integrated into the spreadsheet, creating interactive data reports to share with customers and other users.
The new feature is currently available in public preview to all users running the MS Excel Beta Channel on Windows.
In this tutorial, we will explore the many features and capabilities this new integration provides, to unlock unprecedented data science and machine learning use cases in Excel. First, we will familiarize with the new environment, understanding its execution model, and the differences from standard Python programs. Afterwards, we will work on several examples to demonstrate the potential of using Python directly into the workbook to filter, validate, wrangle and visualize our data. We will conclude our tutorial by creating a full-fledged machine learning experiment directly into Excel.
Familiarity with Excel and the Python language is the only requirement necessary to attend this tutorial.
Setup Instructions
Python in Excel is currently available (for free) to MS Excel users using Windows operating system.
Non-Windows Users
If you are not running on Windows, it is strongly recommended to install a version of Windows on a virtual machine (VM) using any solution that works on your operating system.
For example, Parallels for mac OS users, or VirtualBox for Linux users.
Setup Python in Excel for Windows
To use the new "Python in Excel" feature, it is required to join the Microsoft 365 Insider Program and choose the Beta Channel Insider level.
You can find more detailed instructions on Get Started with Python in Excel.
(Optional) Install Excel Labs plugin
Excel Labs is an add-in that includes experimental Excel features. Among these features, it provides Python editor: A notebook-like interface designed for authoring Python in Excel.
Excel lab is not required, but strongly recommended to have a better working and development experience with Python in Excel.
Data Download
Once all the setup operations are completed, please download the Financial Sample Excel Workbook.
We will use this data file as our gym playground to familiarise with the new feature.
Novice
Expected audience expertise: Python:Intermediate
Abstract as a tweet (X) or toot (Mastodon):Do you know that you can now run Python directly into Excel ? Come to my tutorial to know more, and to boost your data analytics skills!
