info tech exam 2 (hopefully last time!)

IF – Tests one condition; returns one result if TRUE, another if FALSE.
Nested IF – Handles multiple conditions with more than two outcomes (e.g., assigning letter grades).
AND – Returns TRUE only if all conditions are TRUE; often nested inside IF.
OR – Returns TRUE if any condition is TRUE.
COUNTIF – Counts how many cells meet one condition (e.g., orders over $500).
SUMIFS – Adds numbers meeting multiple conditions (e.g., sum sales where Region = “West” and Month = “May”).
AVERAGEIF – Averages values meeting one condition.
VLOOKUP – Searches vertically for a value in the first column of a table and returns related data from another column.
XLOOKUP – Improved lookup; searches left, right, up, or down, can return exact or closest match.
Alternative to Nested IFs – Use a lookup table with VLOOKUP or XLOOKUP for simpler, scalable logic.
Goal Seek – Finds the input needed to reach a target result; changes one variable only.
Scenario Manager – Stores and compares named sets of input values (“Best Case,” “Worst Case”) to analyze outcomes.
Data Table – Displays how one or two input variables affect a formula’s result.
Named Range – Assigns a label to a cell/range (e.g., TaxRate) to make formulas easier to read.
Structured Reference – Uses column names instead of cell addresses (e.g., =[@Revenue]-[@Cost]).

Excel Table – Converts data into a dynamic structure with automatic formula filling, sorting, and filtering.
Filter – Temporarily hides rows not meeting criteria.
Advanced Filter – Applies complex criteria using AND/OR logic.
Sort (Primary/Secondary) – Arranges data by multiple levels (e.g., Department → then Employee Name).
Subtotals – Automatically inserts totals after sorted groups.
Conditional Formatting – Changes cell appearance based on set conditions (e.g., highlight duplicates or values above average).
Slicer – Interactive buttons to filter Excel Tables or PivotTables.
Timeline Slicer – Specialized slicer for filtering by date.
SUBTOTAL Function – Performs calculations only on visible (filtered) rows.

PivotTable – Summarizes and groups large datasets to analyze totals, counts, or averages.
Values Area – Section where numeric data is summarized.
PivotChart – Visual display tied directly to PivotTable data.
Refresh – Updates PivotTable or PivotChart after source data changes.
Drill Down – Double-click a summary value to see the underlying records.
Dashboard – Combines PivotCharts, Slicers, and KPIs to present insights interactively.

Database – Organized collection of related data stored electronically.
Table – Holds data in rows (records) and columns (fields).
Record – One complete entry (e.g., one customer).
Field – A single category of data (e.g., CustomerID, Email).
Primary Key – Unique identifier for each record; cannot be blank.
Foreign Key – Field that links to another table’s primary key.
Relationship – Logical connection between tables.
One-to-One Relationship – One record in Table A links to one in Table B.
One-to-Many Relationship – One record in Table A links to many in Table B.
Many-to-Many Relationship – Records in both tables relate to many others; requires a junction table.
Referential Integrity – Ensures every foreign key matches an existing primary key (prevents orphan records).
Query – Retrieves specific data using criteria (like filtering but more powerful).
Form – Simplified interface for entering or viewing one record at a time.
Report – Printable summary or formatted output of data.
DBMS – Database Management System; software for creating, managing, and querying databases.
RDBMS – Relational Database Management System (supports relationships and SQL).
SQL – Structured Query Language for managing data (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE).

CIA Triad – Core security principles:
- Confidentiality → restrict access to authorized users.
- Integrity → protect data from unauthorized changes.
- Availability → ensure data access when needed.
Encryption – Converts data to unreadable code for protection.
Decryption – Converts encrypted data back to readable form.
Strong Password – 12+ characters, mix of types, not guessable.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Adds an extra verification step (e.g., text code).
Malware – General term for harmful software.
- Virus – Attaches to legitimate programs/files and spreads when opened.
- Worm – Self-replicates across networks without user action.
- Trojan Horse – Disguises as safe software to deliver payloads.
- Ransomware – Encrypts files and demands payment.
- Spyware – Secretly monitors user activity.
Social Engineering – Manipulates people into giving confidential information (e.g., phishing emails).
Database Security Practices – Use long passwords, encryption, backups, and access control.

Productivity Apps – Software for creating/managing content (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access).
Word Processing Software – Text creation and formatting (Word).
Spreadsheet Software – Data organization and analysis (Excel).
Presentation Software – Visual slideshows (PowerPoint).
Database Software – Structured data storage and management (Access).
Desktop App – Installed locally; runs offline with full features.
Web App – Runs in a browser; accessible anywhere with internet.
Mobile App – Designed for touchscreens (iOS/Android).
Suite – Group of productivity apps (Microsoft 365).