EXCEL-BASED QUALITATIVE DATA ANALYSIS: METHODOLOGICAL GUIDELINES FOR SYSTEMATIC ORGANIZATION, ITERATIVE CODING, AND THEMATIC VISUALIZATION

Abstract

This methodological paper presents the best strategies for arranging, categorizing, and displaying qualitative data. Although more sophisticated tools are available in specialized qualitative analysis programs such as NVivo, ATLAS.ti, and MAXQDA, Excel offers researchers a more accessible, adaptable, and user-friendly option. This paper shows how systematic coding, data management, and visual aids in Excel can handle and evaluate qualitative data efficiently. The results demonstrate Excel's usefulness in qualitative research, especially for those seeking an affordable and comfortable platform without sacrificing analytical rigor. This paper provides insights by explaining the benefits and drawbacks of using Excel for qualitative data analysis.