Python Basics: Getting Started the Easy Way

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So, you’ve heard about Python—maybe from a friend who works in tech, a coding video on YouTube, or while googling “what is Python.” Good news: you’re in the right place. This is the first part of our Python Basics series, where we’ll take you step by step through the essentials. Whether you’re curious about programming, switching careers, or just want to automate boring tasks, Python is a fantastic starting point. In this article, we’ll cover two big things: Intro & Setup → What Python is, how to install it, and where to write your code. Python Basics → The foundation: syntax, variables, functions, and control flow. By the end, you’ll have written and run your first Python programs. 1. Intro & Setup What is Python? Python is a high-level programming language known for being simple, readable, and beginner-friendly. Instead of cryptic symbols and heavy syntax, you write code that almost looks like English sentences. For example, here’s “Hello, World” in Python: print("Hello,...
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Learn Excel for Free: Resources + Certificates in 2025

When it comes to office productivity, Excel is still the king. Whether you’re managing budgets, analyzing data, or building dashboards, knowing Excel well can make you faster, sharper, and a lot more valuable at work.

The good news? You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on expensive courses. There are plenty of free resources — from practice websites and YouTube channels to free eBooks and even online certificates — that can help you level up your Excel skills in 2025. Let’s dive in.


Practice Excel Online (Hands-On Sites)

One of the best ways to learn Excel is by practicing, not just reading or watching videos. Luckily, there are great websites that let you practice for free:

  • Excel Exercises: A site filled with exercises sorted by topic (formulas, charts, pivot tables, etc.). You can practice step by step, perfect for both beginners and intermediate learners.
  • Excel Practice Online: Practice directly in your browser without installing Excel. Super convenient if you want to try formulas quickly on the go.
  • Wise Owl Excel Exercises: A treasure trove of exercises with real examples. Wise Owl also has fantastic tutorials that match the exercises, so you can learn and test yourself right away.

If you want to get good at Excel, try setting aside 10–15 minutes a day to solve a few practice problems. It’s like going to the gym, but for your brain.


Learn from YouTube (Full Courses, Totally Free)

YouTube has become one of the best free universities, and Excel is no exception. There are full courses that cover everything from basics to advanced tools:

  • ExcelIsFun – Legendary channel with hundreds of videos, covering formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis.
  • Leila Gharani – Clear explanations with real-world use cases, plus tips on dashboards and advanced tricks.
  • Excel Campus – Great for practical lessons and Excel for business scenarios.
  • Excel Full Course Tutorials (search “Excel Full Course” on YouTube, many run 4–12 hours!) – Perfect if you like sitting through a structured course, almost like a classroom.

The best part? Many of these channels also provide downloadable files so you can follow along and practice.  


Free Excel eBooks (Download and Keep)

Sometimes you just want a handy guide or reference you can read offline. These free eBooks are excellent companions:

  • CFI’s Excel Book (Beginner to Advanced) – Covers formulas, shortcuts, and tips. Great for learners who want everything in one place.
  • The Smart Method – Basic Excel Skills – A simple, beginner-friendly tutorial book used in schools.
  • Excel Fundamentals Manual (SGUL) – A solid starter guide that explains the essentials of Excel step by step.
  • Excel Advanced Training Packet (Shasta COE) – For those who already know the basics and want to push further.

Download one beginner book and one advanced book. That way, you can grow without hunting for resources later.


Free Certificates (Boost Your Resume)

Want to show proof of your skills? Free certificates are a great bonus. While not all are 100% free, many platforms now offer free courses with a certificate included. Here are some options:

  • Great Learning – Excel for Beginners : Free course + free certificate. Short, practical, and beginner-friendly.
  • Simplilearn SkillUp: Covers Excel from beginner to advanced, including pivot tables, dashboards, and even VBA basics. Certificate is free after completion.
  • Alison – Plenty of Excel courses. Content is free, though sometimes the certificate itself may require payment. Still, a solid resource to practice.
  • Forbes Advisor’s list of free Excel courses – A regularly updated guide to the best free courses that also give certificates.

These certificates may not be as “prestigious” as Microsoft’s official Excel certification, but they are excellent for LinkedIn, your resume, or just giving yourself a confidence boost.


Improving your Excel skills doesn’t have to cost a cent. With free practice sites, detailed YouTube courses, downloadable eBooks, and even certificates you can add to your resume, 2025 is the perfect time to take your Excel game to the next level.

So pick one resource, start small, and keep practicing. A few months from now, you’ll be amazed at how much faster and more confident you are in Excel.


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