Post #3: Comparing Tools to Document My Day

 When I was asked to document a day in my life using different types of software, I didn’t expect to learn so much about how each tool plays a unique role in how we communicate and organize information. I used a word processor, a spreadsheet, and a presentation tool, each with its own strengths and challenges. Here's what I discovered along the way.

Writing My Day: Word Processor

I used Microsoft Word to write out a journal-style entry about my day. This tool was great for capturing thoughts in detail. Formatting was easy, and I could break things into sections, add bullet points, and adjust the spacing to make it more readable. For storytelling and reflection, a word processor was the most natural fit.

Even though it is not the best tool for charts or data, it’s my go-to for anything that needs to be explained in writing. Outside of school, I use Word to draft reports, meeting notes, and professional documents like resumes or letters.

Tracking My Time: Spreadsheet

Next, I turned to Excel to break down my day by the hour. I listed out my activities, tracked how long I spent on each, and calculated percentages. One of the best features of spreadsheets is their ability to handle math automatically. I also created a pie chart to visualize how I spent my time.

At work, I rely on Excel almost daily to track hiring metrics, run performance reports, and manage sales data. I’ve even automated a few workflows to save time. While Excel can be overwhelming for someone new, learning how to use formulas and charts has been a huge time-saver for me.

Bringing It to Life: Presentation Tool

After collecting all the data, I used PowerPoint to present my day in a more visual way. I created a slideshow that highlighted key moments and included photos, transitions, and short notes. Presentation software is great for making things more engaging and easier to share with others.

In my job, I use PowerPoint to lead team meetings and present updates to leadership. It’s a tool that makes it easy to get a message across clearly when visuals are just as important as the words.

A Quick Note on Databases

I didn’t use a database tool for this assignment, but I’ve worked with Microsoft Access in the past, and I currently use Power BI to handle data in a more interactive way. Databases are helpful for storing large sets of information, like employee records or sales history. However, they can be harder to learn and usually require some understanding of SQL or data modeling.

Final Thoughts

Each application helped me look at my day in a different way. The spreadsheet gave structure and numbers, PowerPoint made things visual, but the word processor gave me space to reflect and explain. For a project like this, where personal experience and context matter, I found the word processor to be the most effective tool.

Knowing the strengths of each software lets you choose the right one for the task. And once you do, it becomes a lot easier to communicate clearly and get things done.