Reality check Microsoft Excel is one of the most routinely used spreadsheets to enter and clean data by researchers. However, the lack of professional training in Excel hinder its efficient usage. Majority of investigators are aware of basic data entry and cleaning mechanisms in Excel. However, there are numerous advanced easy-to-use functions that increase the efficiency and accuracy of data entry. The present article will be discussing four vital functions to enter and clean data efficiently. These functions are the following: • Data form • Data validation • Go to special • Protecting specific columns, worksheet, and workbook