WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING 

About Excel Modeling in Corporate Finance

"First, the author has chosen spreadsheets that use dynamic charts to illustrate concepts in an interactive manner (drag a control to change the parameters and the chart changes - this is a powerful teaching tool in or out of the classroom).

Second, the book needs to be read in sequence because spreadsheets you build in one chapter are the basis for refinements and added complexity in later chapters. This leads to highly complex spreadsheets, such as the model in chapter 16 (Life-Cycle Financial Planning), which incorporates tax parameters (federal and state levels), benefits analysis and other factors.

In all there are 53 spreadsheets presented in this book, and you build them. The author calls this "active learning" (as opposed to passive learning where you are provided templates), and it is effective because you are the one who builds the models and tools while following the book." Mike Tarrani, Consultant and Project Manager, Top 50 Reviewer on Amazon.com

About Excel Modeling in Investments

"If you believe, as I do, that students should learn to build their own electronic spreadsheet models to master topics like portfolio management or stock valuation, then Craig Holden's new text is for you. For me it is a godsend. I used to spend far too much class time explaining the mechanics of spreadsheet construction. But not any more. I have class tested Holden's book, and it works. His step-by-step explanations and examples enable students with only a minimal knowledge of Excel to construct fairly complicated models without wasting days mastering Excel functions. Holden's text makes a great supplement for Bodie, Kane, and Marcus, INVESTMENTS." Zvi Bodie, Boston University

"I have used some of Professor Holden's spreadsheets in a Portfolio Class with extreme success."  Professor Sorin Tuluca, Fairleigh Dickinson University

"We had an opportunity to use the series to construct the efficient frontier. My students were delighted with their results. ... I see your spreadsheet modeling modules as a way to build spreadsheet modeling into the class and as a way to build spreadsheet skills throughout the semester." Professor Mindy Nitkin, Simmons College

"I think your exercises are one of the best supplements I have seen." Professor Carl Hudson, Auburn University

"I bought your workbook a week ago and literally could not stop until I completed the challenge. ... Your book was great! It was clear, useful and used aspects of Excel that I wanted to learn. ... Doing the spreadsheets helped me better understand many of the courses I've already taken." Bart Miller, student at Washington University in St Louis, after completing all of the spreadsheet models.

Five star rating (top rating). "Should be required at school. This workbook is truly the strongest complement to the classroom. It allows the student to flesh out the theoretical concept while building an important skill set for anyone who wants a career in finance. A wise investment...looking forward to the new titles coming out in the fall!" Amazon.com customer review from Roosevelt Island, N.Y.

"The package was extremely well designed. The models appeared to be quite comprehensive and included all major quantitative models. Students actually learn how to build models rather than using preformatted templates." Professor Robert Kleiman, Oakland University

"'Spreadsheet Modeling in Investments' is a wonderful way for the investments student to apply and understand the tools of investment management. Its ease of use and flexible approach make it an ideal addition to any investments course." Professor Marilyn Wiley, Florida Atlantic University

"Many thanks for sharing this material. ... Everyone completing any course of undergraduate study should have the opportunity to study this material as it has an exceptional impact on future earnings and retirement." Dean Officier, executive at Juno.com, after completing all 43 spreadsheet models.

"If students are to survive in the financial world today, they must have computer modeling. Craig Holden has developed basic financial computer models needed to produce and to forecast answers in areas ranging from financial statements to portfolio theory. These are hands-on exercises in which the students learn both computer modeling techniques and financial theory. They are the best I’ve seen in my years of working with spreadsheets." Professor Alan Bailey, University of Texas at San Antonio

"It was very challenging but worth doing." Jungjin Park, student at Boston University, after completing all 43 spreadsheet models.

About Spreadsheet Modeling Exercises (bundled with "Finance" by Bodie and Merton)

"I am currently using the Bodie and Merton book and have been happy with the reaction the students have had to the Spreadsheet Modeling Exercises." Professor Carl Hudson, Auburn University

"Thanks for a great learning experience." Jim Finnegan, student at Boston University, after completing all of the spreadsheet models.

About Craig Holden's Dynamic Chart of US Term Structure Dynamics*  click here  to download for free

“I am very grateful to you for sharing with me and others your four wonderful EXCEL spreadsheet programs. I will certainly use them in class ....  I have been demonstrating them enthusiastically to my colleagues here at Boston University and they too are excited by them.” Zvi Bodie, Boston University

 “I downloaded your Excel 'movie'. Its great!”  Vikram Nanda, University of Michigan

 “Nice application.”  Campbell Harvey, Duke University

 “Cool spreadsheets.”  Don Chance, Virginia Tech

 “You've done a great service to the profession! Thanks!”  Cornelis Los, NTU/NBS/BF, Singapore

* © 2002 Craig W. Holden -- Now included with all members of the Spreadsheet Modeling series of workbook / CDs. It comes with 30 years of monthly US zero-coupon, yield curves updated through the end of July 2002.