I've read both Excel 97 Step by Step (basic) and this advanced topics. The difference is really a bit more in-depth on some topics found in the basic edition. Unlike other step by step series, this one does not even have review excerises at the end of each chapter. I found a couple of the chapters such as writing different formulas and functions rather confusing and perhaps totally unnecessary for business use. Some topics are even "repeats" of what were on the basic edition of Excel 97 Step by Step.Out of other Step by Step books that I've read, this one is probably the worst.