With the Excel Expert (Office 2016) certification, you demonstrate the ability to:

• Manage complex Excel workbooks and datasets
• Create advanced formulas and functions
• Analyze data using PivotTables and PivotCharts
• Build professional dashboards and visual reports
• Implement data validation and advanced formatting techniques
• Perform advanced data analysis and forecasting
• These skills help organizations analyze large datasets and generate actionable business insights using Excel.

Exam Skills Measured

The 77-728 exam evaluates several advanced Excel skill domains.

1. Manage Workbook Options and Settings (15–20%)

Candidates must understand how to:

• Configure workbook properties and settings
• Manage workbook protection and security
• Optimize workbook usability

2. Manage and Format Data (20–25%)

Candidates should be able to:

• Use advanced sorting and filtering techniques
• Implement conditional formatting
• Manage structured data tables

3. Create Advanced Formulas and Functions (25–30%)

This domain focuses on:

• Creating complex formulas and nested functions
• Implementing lookup and reference functions
• Performing advanced calculations

4. Manage Advanced Charts and Tables (20–25%)

Candidates must understand how to:

• Create PivotTables and PivotCharts
• Build dashboards and advanced visualizations
• Analyze data trends and insights

Certification Validity

• Microsoft Office Specialist certifications do not expire, because they validate proficiency in a specific product version (Office 2016).

Who Should Pursue This Certification?

This certification is ideal for professionals such as:

• Data Analysts
• Financial Analysts
• Business Intelligence professionals
• Accountants and finance professionals
• Office professionals managing complex spreadsheets

Career Benefits

• Demonstrates expertise in advanced Excel data analysis
• Validates skills in financial modeling and data reporting
• Recognized globally as a Microsoft Office Specialist credential
• Supports careers involving data-driven decision-making

Summary

The Microsoft Office Specialist: Excel Expert (Office 2016) certification validates advanced Excel skills for analyzing and interpreting data.

Key points

• Requires one exam: 77-728
• No prerequisite certification required
• focuses on advanced formulas, PivotTables, charts, and data analysis
• Expert-level certification in the Microsoft Office Specialist program.