With Excel 2000 (spreadsheet) you can sort a 'database' on three columns, and filter on values. So the specific example you name could be done.
But for this data processing purposes I would advocate database software like MS Access, or - maybe even better - dedicated software like the programs found with http://www.google.com/search?q=family+tree+software and comparable searches. I don't have any experience with that kind of software myself, however, so I can't recommend anything. Maybe try another forum, or do some research yourself.
Kees
Have Windows XP, with SP2. Have Microsoft Works/Word 2000. No working knowledge of Microsoft Office. Am researching family tree, and have started a spreadsheet of all info from birth, marr., death certs.(now into hundreds).
Problem is, I want to sort all columns in s/s, not just two, which seems to be case with Works. For example, can sort surname,(column A, or Christian name
(column B), but no other columns.
Want to investigate pattern, within branches of family. For example, would like to know, which individuals with name Smith, were born, married or died at Acacia Avenue. This list would, ideally, be in chronological order. Will Microsoft Office, or any other software let me check this out. The more columns I can sort at one time would be ideal.
Hope someone can help.

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