Getting Started with XLSim 3.1

XLSim has offered basic Monte Carlo simulation for Microsoft Excel since 2000. Version 3.1 now supports small (single worksheet) interactive simulation models based on DIST™ 1.0 distribution strings, in which 1,000 trials are run before your finger leaves the enter key.

XLSim has two modes of operation

Traditional Monte Carlo Simulation

Interactive Simulation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Traditional Monte Carlo Step 1 of 3: Specify Input Distribution from Function Dialog

See Plan-Traditional MC.xls. For additional information see the XLSim Tutorial on Traditional Simulation.

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Traditional Monte Carlo Step 2 of 3: Specify Output Cell

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Traditional Monte Carlo Step 3 of 3: Run Simulation and View Statistics

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Interactive Simulation Step 1 of 4: Specify DIST Input(s)

Select Cell(s) to contain uncertain quantities (DEMAND in this example) and click the Input DIST button. Then select the cell(s) containing the DIST(s). See Plan-DIST.xls. For additional information see the XLSim Tutorial on Interactive Simulation.

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Interactive Simulation Step 2 of 4: Generate the DIST-Based Interactive Model

Select the Output Cell(s) and click the DISTify button. A new worksheet will be generated containing interactive DIST formulas, leaving your original model intact.

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Interactive Simulation Step 3 of 4: Add Graphs and Output Statistics

A. Select an Output Cell on the original sheet and click the Blitzogram button. Then select empty cells in the spreadsheet for calculations.

B. Add formulas for statistical properties of Output Cells such as Average on the original sheet. Click the Output button. Formulas will be redirected to the corresponding cell on the DIST formula sheet.

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Interactive Simulation Step 4 of 4: Have Fun!

Change the amount invested in cell B4, and a 1,000 trial simulation of Profit is immediately run. Link a spinner to investment to create a dramatic presentation like the one below. And of course, for any investment level, you may scroll through all 1,000 trials individually with the scroll bar created at step 1. See Plan-DIST completed.xls.

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