Excel Colour Coding and Layout Standard for Models
Set consistent conventions for inputs, calculations and outputs.
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Write a layout and formatting standard for Excel models. Types of models we build: [MODEL_TYPES]. Team size and review practice: [TEAM_AND_REVIEW]. Problems seen: [PROBLEMS]. Define sheet order (cover, instructions, inputs, calculations, outputs, checks), one purpose per sheet, units in a column, a consistent time direction across columns, a named range policy, no hard-coded numbers in formulas, never hiding sheets that contain calculations, and a change log. Give the colour convention as a table with Cell type, Fill, Font and a non-colour marker such as a border or label, so it does not rely on colour alone: Inputs light yellow with blue text and a thick left border; Formulas no fill with black text; Links to other sheets green text; Checks showing OK or an error text. Provide a one-page cover sheet template (model name, purpose, owner, version, date, inputs location, key outputs, checks status, change log) with an example filled in with invented content, and a checks block: Balance check (assets minus liabilities minus equity) equals 0.00; revenue on summary equals revenue on the calculation sheet; number of error cells equals 0; a master check cell on the cover. Add a fifteen-item review checklist, a review routine in which a second person recalculates three outputs by hand and signs the change log, and a note on protecting formulas while leaving inputs open [VERIFY]. Label anything depending on an edition or add-on [VERIFY].
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