The core computer skills for office jobs are formatting documents in Word, working with data in Excel, and managing email and calendars in Outlook. Use the checklist below to see where you stand. Our Microsoft Excel & Office Essentials class covers all three in 12 hours, online or in person, evenings or Saturdays.
Word checklist
Check off what you can already do without help:
- Create, save and rename a document in a folder you can find later
- Use headings, bold, bullets and numbered lists
- Set margins, line spacing and page breaks
- Format a professional business letter
- Build a clean, one-page resume
- Insert a table and adjust its columns
- Use spell check and track down formatting problems
- Save or export a document as a PDF
Excel checklist
- Enter data cleanly with clear column headers
- Write SUM, AVERAGE and COUNT formulas
- Copy formulas down a column correctly
- Sort a list without mixing up rows
- Filter to show only the rows you need
- Format numbers as currency, dates and percentages
- Create a simple bar or line chart
- Build a simple budget
Outlook checklist
- Write a clear, professional email with a useful subject line
- Reply, reply all and forward correctly
- Attach a file and open attachments safely
- Organize email with folders
- Create a calendar event and send a meeting invite
- Accept, decline or propose a new time for a meeting
- Set reminders so you do not miss deadlines
Everyday basics employers assume
Beyond Office, most employers expect you to manage files and folders, type with reasonable speed and accuracy, use a web browser confidently, and join a video meeting. If any of these feel shaky, practice a little each day. Short, steady practice beats cramming.
How to close the gaps fast
Count your unchecked boxes. If you have more than a few, a short, structured class is the fastest fix. Ours is hands-on: you practice formulas, sorting, filtering and charts in Excel, create documents, resumes and letters in Word, and use Outlook email and calendar. You finish with a portfolio spreadsheet project.
Want help with your resume too? Read how to write a resume with no experience. For a broader program covering digital skills, job readiness and mock interviews, see our Career Readiness & Entrepreneurship Employment Training on the programs page.
Class details
- Class: Microsoft Excel & Office Essentials, 12 hours total.
- Evening cohort: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00 to 9:00 PM Pacific, December 1 to 10, 2026.
- Saturday cohort: January 9 and 16, 2027, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific.
- Format: in person at 255 N. D Street, Suite #200-XXVII, San Bernardino, CA 92401, or live online from anywhere in the U.S.
- Price: $297.
- What you get: hands-on practice with Excel formulas, sorting, filtering, charts and a simple budget, plus Word documents, resumes and letters, Outlook email and calendar, and a portfolio spreadsheet project you can show employers.
How to enroll
- Apply online. It takes about 2 minutes.
- Pay with the Excel & Office Essentials pay link or see every option on the tuition page.
- We confirm your seat within 2 business days.
Not sure yet? Join our free Info Session & Orientation, online every Monday from 5:00 to 5:45 PM Pacific. Register on the enroll page to get the link.
FAQ
Which skill should I learn first?
Start with whichever one the jobs you want mention most. For many office roles, Excel is the biggest gap, but strong Word and Outlook skills matter every day.
Is this class good for older adults returning to work?
Yes. It starts with the basics and moves at a steady pace. Many people use it to refresh skills after time away.
Do you offer a Microsoft certification?
Microsoft Office Specialist exam prep is part of our Industry Certifications launching in 2027, taught by certified partner instructors. Join the interest list on our enroll page.
Questions? Call or text (909) 454-7076.