Excel

Create your own personal 3-month budget in an Excel workbook. Using real numbers is not necessary (nor is it encouraged for privacy reasons). Generate this workbook from scratch by using a standard layout and structure for the budget workbook. Do not use an Excel template; however, you are welcome to refer to a template for guidance in creating your workbook.

  1. Start with a relevant title and put your name in the subtitle
  2. Add column headers for the months.
  3. In column A, add a label for Income. Under Income, list the job (or jobs) that you will be using).
  4. Add numbers in column B.
  5. Next, use a formula to add your income for the job or jobs that you hold. Use Total Income for the label. (Note: add this line even if you have only one job).
  6. Leave a couple of blank rows, then in column A, add a label (Expenses) before listing the cost of housing (rent or mortgage) and appropriate utilities (cable, Internet, phone, electricity, etc., and all other expenses you may wish to incorporate) for the three months.
  7. In column B, add numbers for each of your expenses.
  8. In column A, add a label for Total Expense.
  9. Total your expenses for each month.
  10. In column A, add a label for Net Income.
  11. Calculate your Net Income (Total Income minus Total Expenses) for each month.
  12. Add sparklines to column E for all rows with data.