Excel Add-Ins are similar to smart phone apps and graphic plug-ins. That is, they are separate applications written by independent programmers that provide enhanced capabilities for the primary software. You can get Add-Ins for Word, PowerPoint, and other popular programs as well. Most Add-Ins are either free or have a minimal cost and, generally, use very little memory.

How do Add-Ins work?

Add-Ins are very diverse, so they function quite differently. They’re produced from hundreds of sources and cover every imaginable topic. These are the 10 main types, though many of these categories overlap:

• Charts & Graphics
• Data Analysis
• Educational
• Financial & Accounting
• Formulas/Functions
• Marketing
• Productivity & Time Management
• Reference
• Reports & Templates
• Utilities

Many of them are backward- and forward-compatible, but check the system requirements before you download anything. Note that newer isn’t always better: Many of the Add-Ins that were created years ago are still some of the best ones available.

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