We spend lot of time in data cleaning. But there is no simple definition of exactly what clean data means. Therefore, I created a simple 10 item checklist. If all 10 items are correct, data is clean. Simple and easy to use.

10 rules for Clean data

Remember, here we are talking about input data – not output (reports).

1. Each column must have a heading
2. No blank headings
3. No duplicate headings
4. No formulas in headings
5. No merged cells
6. Each column must have ONE meaning
7. Each column must have ONE type of data
8. No subtotals or grand totals
9. Formatting should not be used instead of data
10. Data must grow vertically, not horizontally

Convert clean data to a Table

If you are using Excel, as soon as data is cleaned, convert it into a Table. Why? Here are the benefits of using Excel Tables – 13 articles.