What is Data Consolidation?
Data Consolidation in LibreOffice Calc is a feature that combines data from multiple sheets or ranges into a single summary. It helps to aggregate large datasets, such as finding totals, averages, or counts.
Steps to Consolidate Data:
- Organize Data: Ensure all data ranges have the same structure (e.g., same column headings).
- Open Consolidation Tool: Go to Data > Consolidate from the menu bar.
- Set Consolidation Options:
- Source Ranges: Add the ranges of data you want to consolidate.
- Target Range: Choose where to display the consolidated data.
- Function: Select the aggregate function (e.g., Sum, Average, Count).
- Choose Labels (Optional): Enable "Use labels" for rows/columns if your data includes headers.
- Apply: Click OK, and the consolidated data will appear in the target range.
Example:
Here is an example of how data is consolidated:
Source Data (Sheet 1):
| Product |
Sales (Jan) |
| A |
200 |
| B |
300 |
Source Data (Sheet 2):
| Product |
Sales (Feb) |
| A |
250 |
| B |
350 |
Consolidated Data:
| Product |
Total Sales |
| A |
450 |
| B |
650 |
Key Points for Exams:
- Data consolidation saves time by combining multiple datasets automatically.
- Aggregate functions like Sum, Average, and Count are commonly used.
- Ensure that source ranges are properly formatted and consistent.
