Top 10 best tips to build an Excel financial model

1. Start with the target end result

2. Clear input, calculation, output (presentation) sections

3. Easy to understand linear flow

4. Easy to audit, add notes

5. Consistent simple color coding (input, formula, linked)

6. "Self-contained" - no external links

7. "Automate" as much as possible

8. Identical template for each sheet to facilitate consolidations

9. Easy to update

10. Always add error checking

For more tips and best practices for building financial models, contact me