Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
22/07/2026 2:37 PM AWST
22/07/2026 2:37 PM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Operate a spreadsheet application
Operate a spreadsheet application
Unit of competency
National Code
ICAU1130B
ICAU1130B
State Code
D0242
D0242
TGA Status
Replaced
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Replaced
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
19/03/2012
Field of Education
080905 - Practical Computing Skills
Original Release Date
19/03/2012
Nominal Hours
30
Description
This unit defines the competency required to correctly operate spreadsheet applications and perform basic operations.The following units are linked and form an appropriate cluster:ICAU1128B Operate a personal computerICAU1129B Operate a word processing applicationICAU1131B Operate a database applicationICAU1132B Operate a presentation packageNo licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Create spreadsheets
- 1.1. Open spreadsheet application and create/open spreadsheet file and enter numbers, text and symbols into cells according to information requirements
- 1.2. Enter simple formulas using cell referencing where required
- 1.3. Correct formulas when error messages occur
- 1.4. Use a range of common tools during spreadsheet development
- 1.5. Edit columns and rows within the spreadsheet
- 1.6. Use the auto-fill function to increment data where required
- 1.7. Save spreadsheet to correct directory or folder
2. Customise basic settings
- 2.1. Adjust page layout to meet user requirements or special needs
- 2.2. Open and view different toolbars
- 2.3. Change fontsettings so they are appropriate for the purpose of the document
- 2.4. Change alignment options and line spacing according to spreadsheet formattingfeatures
- 2.5. Format cell to display different styles as required
- 2.6. Modify margin sizes to suit the purpose of the spreadsheets
- 2.7. View multiple spreadsheets concurrently
3. Format spreadsheet
- 3.1. Use formatting features as required
- 3.2. Copy selected formattingfeatures from another cell in the spreadsheet or from another active spreadsheet
- 3.3. Use formattingtools as required within the spreadsheet
- 3.4. Align information in a selected cell as required
- 3.5. Insert headers and footers using formattingfeatures
- 3.6. Save spreadsheet in another format
- 3.7. Save and close spreadsheet to disk
4. Incorporate object and chart in spreadsheet
- 4.1. Import an object into an active spreadsheet
- 4.2. Manipulate imported object by using formattingfeatures
- 4.3. Create a chart using selected data in the spreadsheet
- 4.4. Display selected data in a different chart
- 4.5. Modify chart using formatting features
5. Print spreadsheet
- 5.1. Preview spreadsheet in print preview mode
- 5.2. Select basic printer options
- 5.3. Print spreadsheet or selected part of spreadsheet
- 5.4. Submit the spreadsheet to the appropriate person for approval or feedback
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
help
search and replace
spell check
undo
simple formatting tools
add
select
copy
paste
delete
move
text or symbols added to the document
display modes
orientation
size
buttons
menus
a combination of both
type
size
colour
left
centred
right
justified
italics
bold
underline
hyphenation
Menu commands within the application, such as: help, search and replace, spell check, undo, cut, copy, paste.
Saving the spreadsheet as another type of document, such as: HTML, XML, comma separated values or text.
disks
CDs
CD-RW (Compact Discs-Read Write)
DVD RW
zip disks
solid state hard drives
Any item that can be inserted into the spreadsheet, such as: other documents, pictures and sound.
supervisor
teacher
authorised business representative
client
help
search and replace
spell check
undo
simple formatting tools
add
select
copy
paste
delete
move
text or symbols added to the document
display modes
orientation
size
buttons
menus
a combination of both
type
size
colour
left
centred
right
justified
italics
bold
underline
hyphenation
Menu commands within the application, such as: help, search and replace, spell check, undo, cut, copy, paste.
Saving the spreadsheet as another type of document, such as: HTML, XML, comma separated values or text.
disks
CDs
CD-RW (Compact Discs-Read Write)
DVD RW
zip disks
solid state hard drives
Any item that can be inserted into the spreadsheet, such as: other documents, pictures and sound.
supervisor
teacher
authorised business representative
client
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Evidence of the following is essential:
Assessment must confirm ability to complete basic operations associated with creating, formatting, saving and printing a spreadsheet, including creating basic formulas and working with objects and charts.
To demonstrate competency in this unit the person will require access to:
Personal computer
Printer
Mouse and keyboard
Monitor
Basic software
Documents or information containing data suitable for creating spreadsheets
Context of and specific resources for assessment
An individual demonstrating this competency may use pre-existing data (e.g. documents, spreadsheet data, data from database tables) or create new data when creating and manipulating spreadsheets.
The use of spreadsheets for business and mathematical applications is widespread. In some cases, spreadsheets can operate as sophisticated computerised ledgers and enable the collation, manipulation and presentation of complex data.
The breadth, depth and complexity of knowledge and skills in this competency would prepare a person to perform a defined range of activities many of which may be routine and predictable.
Assessment must ensure
Applications may include a variety of employment related skills including preparatory access and participation skills, broad-based induction skills and/or specific workplace skills. They may also include participation in a team or work group.
Method of assessment
The purpose of this unit is to define the standard of performance to be achieved in the workplace. In undertaking training and assessment activities related to this unit, consideration should be given to the implementation of appropriate diversity and accessibility practices in order to accommodate people who may have special needs. Additional guidance on these and related matters is provided in ICA05 Section 1.
Competency in this unit should be assessed using summative assessment to ensure consistency of performance in a range of contexts. This unit can be assessed either in the workplace or in a simulated environment. However, simulated activities must closely reflect the workplace to enable full demonstration of competency.
Assessment will usually include observation of real or simulated work processes and procedures and/or performance in a project context as well as questioning on underpinning knowledge and skills. The questioning of team members, supervisors, subordinates, peers and clients where appropriate may provide valuable input to the assessment process. The interdependence of units for assessment purposes may vary with the particular project or scenario.
Guidance information for assessment
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:
ICAU1128B Operate a personal computer
ICAU1129B Operate a word processing application
ICAU1131B Operate a database application
ICAU1132B Operate a presentation package
An individual demonstrating this competency would be able to:
Demonstrate knowledge by recall in a narrow range of areas
Demonstrate basic practical skills, such as the use of relevant tools
Perform a sequence of routine tasks given clear direction
Receive and pass on messages and information
Maintain knowledge of industry products and services
Overview of assessment
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Evidence of the following is essential:
Assessment must confirm ability to complete basic operations associated with creating, formatting, saving and printing a spreadsheet, including creating basic formulas and working with objects and charts.
To demonstrate competency in this unit the person will require access to:
Personal computer
Printer
Mouse and keyboard
Monitor
Basic software
Documents or information containing data suitable for creating spreadsheets
Context of and specific resources for assessment
An individual demonstrating this competency may use pre-existing data (e.g. documents, spreadsheet data, data from database tables) or create new data when creating and manipulating spreadsheets.
The use of spreadsheets for business and mathematical applications is widespread. In some cases, spreadsheets can operate as sophisticated computerised ledgers and enable the collation, manipulation and presentation of complex data.
The breadth, depth and complexity of knowledge and skills in this competency would prepare a person to perform a defined range of activities many of which may be routine and predictable.
Assessment must ensure
Applications may include a variety of employment related skills including preparatory access and participation skills, broad-based induction skills and/or specific workplace skills. They may also include participation in a team or work group.
Method of assessment
The purpose of this unit is to define the standard of performance to be achieved in the workplace. In undertaking training and assessment activities related to this unit, consideration should be given to the implementation of appropriate diversity and accessibility practices in order to accommodate people who may have special needs. Additional guidance on these and related matters is provided in ICA05 Section 1.
Competency in this unit should be assessed using summative assessment to ensure consistency of performance in a range of contexts. This unit can be assessed either in the workplace or in a simulated environment. However, simulated activities must closely reflect the workplace to enable full demonstration of competency.
Assessment will usually include observation of real or simulated work processes and procedures and/or performance in a project context as well as questioning on underpinning knowledge and skills. The questioning of team members, supervisors, subordinates, peers and clients where appropriate may provide valuable input to the assessment process. The interdependence of units for assessment purposes may vary with the particular project or scenario.
Guidance information for assessment
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:
ICAU1128B Operate a personal computer
ICAU1129B Operate a word processing application
ICAU1131B Operate a database application
ICAU1132B Operate a presentation package
An individual demonstrating this competency would be able to:
Demonstrate knowledge by recall in a narrow range of areas
Demonstrate basic practical skills, such as the use of relevant tools
Perform a sequence of routine tasks given clear direction
Receive and pass on messages and information
Maintain knowledge of industry products and services
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| C8843 | ICAU1130A | Operate a spreadsheet application | Unit of competency |
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| D7839 | ICAICT105A | Operate spreadsheet applications | Unit of competency |
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| C856 | ICA10105 | Certificate I in Information Technology | Qualification |
| D435 | SIS30710 | Certificate III in Sport Coaching | Qualification |