How to Use DataSnipper

Getting started with DataSnipper

In this guide, you will learn how to set up DataSnipper within Excel and automate your auditing tasks. By the end, you'll be able to streamline your workflow and enhance your productivity in finance and auditing.

Step 1: Sign up and set up

1. Go to the DataSnipper website.
2. Click on the "Get Started" button, usually found at the top right corner.
3. Fill out the registration form with your details and create an account.
4. After confirming your email, log in to your account.
5. Download the DataSnipper add-in for Excel from the dashboard.
6. Open Excel, go to the "Insert" tab, click on "Get Add-ins," and search for DataSnipper.
7. Click "Add" to install the add-in.
8. Once installed, you will find DataSnipper in the "Home" tab of Excel.

Step 2: Your first audit task

1. Open a new or existing Excel workbook.
2. Click on the "DataSnipper" button in the "Home" tab to launch the add-in.
3. Choose "Document Collection" to start gathering evidence.
4. Upload the documents you want to audit by clicking "Upload Documents."
5. Select the relevant files from your computer and click "Open."
6. Once the documents are loaded, use the "Cross-reference" feature to link data from your Excel sheet to the uploaded documents.
7. Click "Run Analysis" to automate the evidence collection and review the results.

Step 3: Get better results

1. Use the "Filters" option in the DataSnipper sidebar to narrow down your document search based on specific criteria.
2. Take advantage of the "Annotation" feature to highlight important sections within your documents.
3. Explore the "Templates" option for frequently used audit formats which can save you time on future tasks.
4. Regularly check for updates in the add-in by clicking on "Settings" and selecting "Check for Updates."

Pro tip

Use keyboard shortcuts like "Ctrl + Shift + A" to quickly access the annotation feature while reviewing documents, speeding up your workflow.

Common mistake to avoid

Avoid uploading too many documents at once, as this can slow down the analysis process. Instead, upload smaller batches to ensure quicker results and easier management.