I'm here for you

Speaker, author and trainer

Michelle Causton

Michelle Causton is a multifaceted individual whose professional journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a profound commitment to fostering growth and development in others. With a dynamic presence as a public speaker and educator, Michelle has left an indelible mark on the worlds of accounting, education, and professional development. A Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) and a holder of an MBA from Laurentian University, Michelle’s credentials demonstrate her dedication to mastering her craft. Michelle volunteered for her professional organization for many years culminating in a term as president of CGA Ontario. There she played a pivotal role in shaping the organization's strategic direction and advocating for the interests of its members. After working in public accounting, Michelle’s passion for education led her to a career as a university and college professor. There she imparted her knowledge and expertise to countless aspiring accountants. Her impact extended far beyond the confines of the classroom, as she inspired her students to strive for excellence and pursue their goals with vigor and determination. Her contributions were recognized with an award for excellence in teaching and to the prestigious Lorna Harrison Mentorship Award from CGA Ontario. These awards are a testament to her unwavering commitment to guiding and empowering the next generation of accounting professionals. A firm believer in the power of communication and ethical leadership, Michelle has dedicated herself to promoting these values throughout her career. Whether through her captivating speeches, insightful writings, or engaging online content, she strives to instill a sense of integrity and purpose in all those she encounters. As a member of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers, Michelle continues to share her insights and expertise with audiences around the world, captivating and inspiring them with her engaging delivery and thought-provoking ideas. Her ability to connect with people on a personal level and convey complex concepts in a clear and compelling manner sets her apart as a true master of her craft. In addition to her professional endeavors, Michelle is deeply committed to giving back to her community through volunteering and mentoring. She understands the importance of paying it forward and takes great pride in helping others realize their full potential. With a wealth of experience in public accounting, teaching, volunteering, and training, Michelle Causton continues to inspire, with humour and warmth.

Just Right

Goldilocks Solutions

We’ve all been there. You know Excel should be able to do what you need to do - but you don’t know how. You look for an answer on the Internet but the offerings are too big, too small, too hot or too cold (oh wait – that’s just about porridge), too complex, too simple. There is too much information or not enough. Relax – these short video lessons are Just Right. They explain how and demonstrate why. And there’s lots of opportunity to play along.

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Mini Lessons - take one or take them all

    • Welcome - let me introduce myself

    • How to use this course

    • Suggested path forward

    • Content for reference
  • 2

    Good to know, always handy

  • 3

    Link cells, worksheets and workbooks

    • Create links between cells, worksheets and workbooks (4:11)

    • Create links from Excel to Word or PowerPoint (6:13)

    • Test your linking knowledge
  • 4

    Tables

    • Organize your data in a table (6:19)

    • Make use of structured references, summarize data using SUMIF (11:37)

    • Add totals to a table and subtotals to data (6:13)

    • Test you table knowledge
  • 5

    Look up data in tables using a variety of methods

    • Use VLOOKUP to find an exact match in tabular data (9:31)

    • Use VLOOKUP to find the closest match (5:43)

    • Look It Up (6:04)

    • Use Index and Match - a perfect pair
  • 6

    PivotTables

    • Two things you need to know before tackling Pivot Tables

    • Create your first PivotTable and add some formatting (5:49)

    • Use grouping, slicers and PivotCharts (6:27)

    • Use the data provided to create a specific report (9:04)

    • Test your PivotTable knowledge
  • 7

    BONUS MATERIAL

    • Present value concepts

Life Time Access

What's different?

If you love Excel but get frustrated trying to achieve results - this is for you.

Just ask Google. You'll find the answer to almost any Excel question. There are a thousand and one solutions (I counted them) - there are courses, books and You Tube videos. Go ahead and take advantage of the free stuff. I've looked at hundreds of hours of content over the years. But there is a better way. And this is it. Short, easy to follow, video lessons - using simple tools and functions. Most lessons come with downloadable files for you to explore on your own. You don't have to take all of the lessons. You don't have to take them in any order. There are no timelines or deadlines - we have enough of those. And there are projects if you want to test your skills. You can jump in and learn what you want - when you want it. Stay and play - or be on your way. The content is updated frequently.
Angry man pounding keyboard

There has to be a better way!

And now there is.

You love Excel but wish you knew how to better use its awesome tools. You search Google and You Tube and often can’t find the solution to your problem – although you can easily waste a lot of time. The videos are too simplistic or deal with tasks that don’t mirror what you want to do. Microsoft’s help is actually helpful, but isn’t specific to the task at hand. Maybe you’ve been using Excel for years but you keep thinking – there must be a better way. And who has time to explore all the features trying to for what you need. You need a guide. Someone who understands the work you need to do. That’s where I can help. I can share best practices for organizing data and manipulating large data sets. I can help you get the job done. Short, easy to follow lessons with practice workbooks allows you to visualize the solution and then try it yourself. So, come and explore, have fun and become a more confident Excel user.
Head shot of Michelle

Kind words

Lynn Sveinbjornson

Program manager, Bachelor of Commerce Program, Nipissing University

What a great opportunity to learn about Excel! Excel will be used extensively in your education and your work-life, and one of the most powerful business tools out there. Michelle is an excellent teacher so this should be a great set of video lessons!

Let's Get Started.

You won't be sorry.