| Title | 100 Excel VBA Simulations: Using Excel VBA to Model Risk, Investments, Genetics. Growth, Gambling, and Monte Carlo Analysis |
| Author(s) | Gerard M. Verschuuren |
| Publisher | CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform |
| Year | 2016 |
| Edition | 1st Edition |
| Language | English |
| Pages | 230 pages |
| ISBN | 9781540445179 |
| Genre / Domain | Computers & Technology, Business & Money, Science |
| Series | Unknown |
| Size | 12.56 MB |
| Extension |
Summary
100 Excel VBA Simulations is a practical guide that teaches Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) through a collection of one hundred diverse and engaging simulation projects. Written by Dr. Gerard M. Verschuuren, a human geneticist and Microsoft Certified Professional, the book is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical programming concepts and real-world applications. Its unique value lies in the breadth of its content, covering everything from games of chance like roulette and slot machines to scientific models of population genetics and Monte Carlo risk analysis [citation:1][citation:5][citation:9].
The book is structured to be highly accessible, presenting each simulation as a self-contained, two-page spread. One page provides a clear explanation of the problem, a visual illustration of the spreadsheet, and key theoretical insights, while the adjacent page contains the complete, ready-to-use VBA code [citation:8][citation:13]. This format allows readers to quickly grasp both the "why" and the "how" of each project, making it an excellent resource for those who learn by doing. Readers can also download all the example files from the author's companion website, enabling them to immediately run and modify the simulations [citation:8][citation:13].
The book's strength lies in the immediate applicability of its models. For finance professionals, it offers essential models for value at risk and Monte Carlo analysis [citation:8]. Scientists and students will find simulations on discrete distributions, sample generation, and genetic modeling [citation:5]. Even those new to programming will find the exercises approachable, with clear, concise code that demonstrates key concepts like variable handling, data manipulation, and the use of dialog boxes and graphs [citation:8].
Targeted at Excel users ranging from beginners to advanced analysts, this book is particularly valuable for those who need to build models to predict future events without the high cost of specialized software. Whether you're a business analyst, financial planner, scientist, or student, the hands-on projects provide a robust framework for learning how to automate tasks, analyze data, and visualize complex systems using Excel's built-in programming language. The book is ideal for anyone seeking to move beyond basic Excel functionalities and unlock the full power of VBA [citation:5][citation:8].
By focusing on practical, fun, and intellectually stimulating examples, 100 Excel VBA Simulations stands out as a unique and effective way to master VBA programming. It serves not only as a learning tool but also as a valuable reference, containing a library of modular code that can be easily adapted for a wide range of personal and professional projects. Its accessibility and breadth make it a staple for any Excel user looking to enhance their analytical and programming skills [citation:8][citation:13].
Key Features
- Features 100 distinct and engaging simulation projects covering a wide variety of topics.
- Uses a unique, practical two-page format with explanations and illustrations on one page and VBA code on the facing page [citation:8][citation:13].
- Includes simulations on gambling (e.g., roulette, slot machines), statistics (e.g., normal distribution), genetics (e.g., sex determination), and business (e.g., Monte Carlo risk analysis) [citation:5][citation:8].
- Provides all example files for download from the author's website, allowing for immediate, hands-on practice [citation:8].
- Written by a Microsoft Certified Professional with a background in human genetics and the philosophy of science [citation:1][citation:3].
- Teaches core VBA concepts like variables, loops, and data manipulation through practical applications.
- Demonstrates how to create interactive Excel tools using dialog boxes and graphs.
- Offers a cost-effective alternative to expensive textbooks for learning modeling and simulation [citation:5].
- Serves as a practical bridge between theoretical programming knowledge and real-world application.
- Includes a comprehensive table of contents that organizes simulations into categories like gambling, statistics, genetics, and business.
- Provides insightful "what you need to know" sections that explain the theory behind each simulation [citation:8].
- Utilizes short, manageable code blocks that are easy to understand and adapt for custom projects.
- Accompanied by positive reviews highlighting its value as a learning and reference tool [citation:8][citation:13].
About the Author
Dr. Gerard M. Verschuuren is a human geneticist who also holds a doctorate in the philosophy of science [citation:1][citation:9]. He has studied and worked at universities in both Europe and the United States, writing several biology textbooks in Dutch. His professional background is complemented by his expertise as a Microsoft Certified Professional specializing in VB, VBA, and VB.NET [citation:3][citation:15].
Dr. Verschuuren has spent his career at the intersection of science and technology, using and programming computer software, including Excel, to simulate scientific problems. He has authored numerous books on Excel and VBA, including "Excel for Scientists" and "Slide Your Way Through Excel VBA" [citation:15]. He provides consulting services to a wide range of clients, including Abbott, IBM, and Harvard University [citation:15]. Currently semi-retired, he continues to work as a writer, speaker, and consultant, sharing his deep knowledge of genetics, programming, and modeling [citation:1][citation:9].
Related Books
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- VBA and Macros: Microsoft Excel 2010 — Bill Jelen, Tracy Syrstad
- Data Analysis Using SQL and Excel — Gordon S. Linoff
- Business Analysis with Excel — Stephen L. Nelson, E. C. Nelson
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q : What level of VBA experience is required to use this book?
R : The book is designed to be accessible for beginners. Each simulation is presented with clear, concise code that typically runs 20-30 lines, and the explanations provide the necessary context to understand the fundamentals [citation:8]. However, intermediate users will also find the projects and "what you need to know" sections highly valuable.
Q : What types of simulations are included in the book?
R : The book covers a wide variety of topics, including gambling (roulette, slot machines, lotteries), statistics (normal distribution, sample generation), genetics (sex determination, population growth), finance (Monte Carlo analysis, value at risk), and business modeling, among others [citation:5][citation:8].
Q : Can I download the Excel files and VBA code from the book?
R : Yes, all of the example files and code from the book can be downloaded from the author's companion website, allowing you to run and experiment with the simulations directly [citation:8][citation:13].
Q : How is the book structured to help me learn?
R : Each simulation is presented on two facing pages: one page explains the problem with illustrations and theory, and the opposite page contains the complete VBA code. This straightforward structure makes it easy to follow and learn from each project [citation:8][citation:13].
Q : Who is the author and what are his qualifications?
R : The author is Dr. Gerard M. Verschuuren, a human geneticist with a doctorate in the philosophy of science. He is also a Microsoft Certified Professional specializing in VB, VBA, and VB.NET, and has extensive experience as a consultant and educator [citation:1][citation:3][citation:15].
Q : Is this book a good resource for learning Monte Carlo analysis in Excel?
R : Yes, the book includes multiple simulations dedicated to Monte Carlo methods, and the practical, code-based approach provides an excellent, hands-on introduction to this powerful analytical technique [citation:5].
Q : Does the book cover both the theory and the practical coding of simulations?
R : Yes, the book strikes a balance by providing a "what you need to know" section for each simulation that explains the underlying theory and nuances, alongside the practical VBA code and spreadsheet layout [citation:8].
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