Introduction to Using Power Query

Session Abstract: This introduction to Power Query is for Excel and Power BI users. The session will demonstrate how to efficiently clean, combine, and transform data without altering underlying source files. Participants will learn to navigate the Power Query Editor's GUI interface and create repeatable data workflows. The session features examples using real IR scenarios.

Key learning outcomes include:
- Accessing and importing data from multiple sources
- Creating replicable, editable data transformation workflows
- Combining files and merging datasets efficiently

Attendees will leave with practical skills to streamline repetitive data preparation tasks, reduce manual errors, and create reproducible processes for enrollment reporting, degree analysis, and other institutional research functions.

Keywords: data management, Excel, Power BI