OpenOffice calc is a great spreadsheet. It’s powerful, fast, and free. Like with any other program, it will take a while to learn.

To help you learn OpenOffice as fast as possible, we have created a series of tutorials that walk you step-by step through each of the important concepts you’ll need to master OpenOffice.

In this tutorial we will create a series of spreadsheets for an imaginary company called Fictitious Garden Center. These real-world examples lets you not only see how Calc works but you’ll also see how it can be used to solve everyday problems.

All of the images and sample files are available for download so you can follow along with the tutorials if you like.

These tutorials will start with the basics such as how to enter and import data into a spreadsheet, how to format data, change colors and import graphics so your spreadsheet will look the way you want it to look.

Next, you’ll learn ways to optimize your workspace to work more efficiently by using worksheets and outline functionality. You’ll see how you can split and freeze parts of the screen, hide columns or rows of data and other tricks that will save you time and make your spreadsheet easier to use.

Once you’ve mastered the basics, we’ll see some of the ways you can better organize your spreadsheets, especially when they contain lots of data. You’ll see how to use Calc to quickly find information, sort it in a variety of ways and use filters to only show the data you want.

Calc has powerful charting features that let you visualize your data. You’ll learn how to create charts, modify them, change the way they look, and understand how to manipulate the data behind your charts.

The best spreadsheets go beyond simply creating lists and charts; they provide tools to analyze and understand your data so you can make more informed decisions and better manage risk.

Calc really shines in this area. It has advanced analytic capabilities, such as the ability to create subtotal reports and create “what if” scenarios that let you analyze and compare different outcomes against each other.

We’ll also look at how you can quickly “slice and dice” your data using Calc’s data pilot feature. This will let you organize and analyze your data from several different perspectives. There’s vital information in your data - these tutorials will show you how to discover it.

In an hour or two you’ll not only know what Calc can do for you - you’ll know how to do it. Go ahead and watch the tutorials, download the sample files if you like, and give Calc a try. You’ll be an expert in no time.