What does it mean

Flat data is structured in a table where:

• Dimensions and measures are in the first row as column headers
• Each row represents an individual data element
• There are no gaps in rows or columns...i.e. the data set forms a solid block

Why is it important

A flat data table is ideally suited to:

• Add new or incremental data
• Use the data in a Pivot Table
• Filter by dimensions
• Sort by metrics

Hints and how to's

• Split and freeze window panes so that the first row and first column are always visible
• Filling columns of data down: To do this you can select a range and then double click the “jughandle” (the bottom right corner of the bottom cell in the range, there’s probably a better technical term for this).
• Excel's best tool for exploring data is a pivot.