What is the purpose of using data sources in Excel?

Using data sources in Excel primarily allows users to pull in data from external databases for analysis. This capability enhances the functionality of Excel by enabling users to access large datasets that may not be feasible or efficient to input manually. By connecting to various data sources, such as SQL databases, online data feeds, or other external files, Excel leverages the vast amounts of information stored outside the spreadsheet.

This integration facilitates more advanced data analysis, allowing users to manipulate, visualize, and derive insights from the imported data effectively. It also supports the creation of dynamic reports and the ability to update data automatically as new information becomes available in the source.

Manually entering data into cells, formatting cells and ranges, or creating charts and graphs does not leverage the full analytical power and efficiency that using external data sources provides. Instead, those options focus on more basic functions within Excel that do not involve the interaction and integration with external data sets.