Financial modelling fundamentals
Develop the Microsoft Excel and financial modelling skills needed to create reliable models, analyse data with confidence, and add value in the workplace.
Course Type
E-learning
Length
60 minutes
What you’ll achieve
- Explain what financial modelling is and how it supports business planning and decision-making
- Identify the key stages and principles involved in designing a financial model that meets a specific business need
- Structure financial models using clear inputs, calculations and outputs to improve usability and accuracy
- Apply key Microsoft Excel formulae and features to create efficient, easy-to-maintain financial models
- Identify common financial modelling risks and apply techniques to prevent, detect and correct errors
- Analyse financial data and use modelling outputs to support informed business decisions
About this course
Microsoft Excel remains one of the most sought-after skills in finance, yet many professionals lack the essential knowledge to build robust models that support effective business decision-making. This practical and concise e-learning course is designed for those who want to strengthen their financial modelling capabilities and use Microsoft Excel more effectively in real-world scenarios.
Through four flexible and engaging 15-minute e-learning modules, you'll explore the principles of financial modelling, learn how to structure and build reliable models, apply key Microsoft Excel formulae and features, and identify common risks that can undermine model accuracy. Developed by accounting experts and aligned to the skills needed in modern finance roles, the course combines practical guidance with hands-on application to help you analyse financial and operational data to create clear and decision-ready financial models with confidence.
- Finance professionals seeking to enhance their Microsoft Excel skills
- Financial analysts and strategy managers involved in reporting, forecasting and decision-making
- Accounting and finance graduates developing practical modelling capabilities
- Professionals moving into accounting or finance roles
- Non-finance professionals looking to build financial confidence and improve data analysis skills
- AAT members, accountants and bookkeepers wanting to further develop their Microsoft Excel expertise
Overview
E-learning |
|
60 minutes |
|
Microsoft Excel |
Syllabus
Model definition and purpose
- What is financial modelling and how is it different to using a spreadsheet?
- The relationship between inputs, calculations and outputs
- Examples of models, e.g. budgets, forecasts, cash-flow forecasts, investment appraisals
- How models help users explore assumptions, compare options and make decisions
- The importance of defining the purpose and intended user
Creating a model
- Define the question or decision the model must support
- Identify the intended users and required outputs
- Determine the necessary inputs and assumptions
- Plan the model before entering formulas
- Separate inputs, calculations and outputs
- Use clear labels, consistent formatting and a logical layout
- Keep the model proportionate to its purpose
- Check the model
Improving models
- Link calculations to input cells
- Use relative and absolute cell references
- Copy formulas consistently across periods
- Use functions like SUM and IF
- Demonstrate how changing an assumption automatically updates the outputs
- Utilise conditional formatting
- Add comments in Microsoft Excel
Common pitfalls
- Assumptions hard-coded into formulas
- Inconsistent formulas
- Unclear labels or units
- Unrealistic or inaccurate inputs
- Errors producing unreasonable results
- Uncontrolled changes
- Understanding data validation and protection
How to access
Once purchased you will be able to access the AAT Learning Portal where you'll have 12 months from the date you access the learning materials. AAT Learning Portal allows you to view all the courses you’ve purchased in one place, monitor your latest training activity and create goals to help you achieve your training aims.
