Add a feature to [tex]B2:C25[/tex] that gives the top row sort and filter buttons that affect the rest of the data.

a) Insert a new column between B and C for sorting.
b) Use the Format as Table feature and enable filter options.
c) Manually enter sort and filter buttons in each cell of the top row.
d) Apply conditional formatting to create interactive sort and filter buttons.

To enable sort and filter options for the top row of the range B2:C25, one should use the Format as Table feature in Excel and ensure the table has headers enabled. This will add filter buttons to the headers, allowing for sorting and filtering. The Sort & Filter tool and multi-level sort functionality ensure data integrity.

Explanation:

To add a feature to B2:C25 that gives the top row sort and filter buttons that affect the rest of the data, the recommended approach is to use the Format as Table feature and enable filter options (option b). Here's how you can do it:

Select the range B2:C25.
From the Home tab, click on Format as Table and choose your preferred style.
Make sure to check the box that says 'My table has headers' to enable sorting and filtering options for the top row.
The table will now have drop-down arrows in the headers, which can be used to sort or filter the data accordingly.

Sort & Filter is an essential tool in Excel that helps to maintain the integrity of the data when performing sort operations. It ensures records remain grouped by warning users if they are about to sort a single column, potentially disrupting the data structure. For multi-level sort, additional sort criteria can be added using the Add Level button to organize data further based on multiple column values.

To create a table in Excel, select the desired data range and insert a table through the Insert tab. Formatting options, including enabling or disabling filter buttons, can be adjusted from the table design settings.