Financial Modeling Course: Excel Skills for Analysts

Course Description

This intensive 5-day course equips finance professionals with advanced Excel skills to build sophisticated financial models. Participants will learn to construct dynamic, flexible 3-statement models, perform valuations, and conduct scenario analysis. The course emphasizes best practices in model design, formula efficiency, and error-checking techniques.

Learning Objectives

• Construct a fully integrated 3-statement financial model from scratch
• Apply advanced Excel functions and formulas for efficient modeling
• Perform sensitivity analysis and create dynamic scenarios
• Build valuation models including DCF and comparable company analysis
• Implement best practices in model design, documentation, and error-checking

Course Modules

Day 1: Foundations of Financial Modeling

• Excel best practices for financial modeling
• Building the income statement
• Forecasting techniques and driver-based projections
• Modeling operating expenses and margins

Day 2: Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Modeling

• Constructing the balance sheet
• Working capital projections
• Building the cash flow statement
• Balancing the model and error-checking

Day 3: Advanced Modeling Techniques

• Debt schedules and interest calculations
• Circular references and iteration
• Scenario and sensitivity analysis
• Data tables and goal seek

Day 4: Valuation Modeling

• Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) analysis
• Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC)
• Comparable company analysis
• Building summary dashboards

Day 5: Model Application and Best Practices

• Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) modeling
• Leveraged Buyout (LBO) modeling basics
• Model audit techniques and error-checking
• Presenting model results effectively

Practical Wins for Participants

• Build a fully functional 3-statement model from scratch
• Create flexible, dynamic models for scenario analysis
• Construct a DCF valuation model for investment decisions
• Implement best practices for efficient, error-free modeling