Which Excel feature provides a quick version of what-if analysis?

The correct answer is Data Tables, which are a powerful tool in Excel for performing what-if analysis. A Data Table allows users to observe how changes in one or two input variables affect the outcome of a formula or calculation in the spreadsheet.

For instance, if you have a formula that calculates profit based on different sales prices and quantities, you can create a Data Table to show how the profit varies as these variables change. This provides an immediate overview of potential scenarios without having to manually change inputs and re-run computations.

This feature is especially useful for analyzing multiple scenarios in one view, making it easier to make informed decisions based on a range of possible inputs. While Goal Seek and Scenario Manager are also valuable tools for what-if analysis, they serve specific cases—Goal Seek determines an input value needed to achieve a desired result, and Scenario Manager allows for the creation and comparison of different groups of input values. Pivot Tables, on the other hand, focus more on data summarization and analysis rather than direct what-if analysis.