In a recent LinkedIn post, Ruben Hassid outlines a rapid, four-level framework for achieving Excel mastery within a single day, leveraging artificial intelligence tools even for those who typically build spreadsheets manually. Hassid’s approach focuses on progressively integrating AI into the spreadsheet creation and refinement process, transforming a time-consuming task into an efficient, AI-assisted workflow.
Hassid introduces his concept by detailing the first level, which involves using AI to generate spreadsheets entirely. He suggests utilizing tools like Claude, recommending specific settings and a detailed prompt structure to maximize the AI’s output. The key, according to Hassid, is to move beyond simple requests and provide comprehensive instructions.
“Most people stop at “make me a budget tracker.” You’re leaving 90% of the output on the table.”
Level 1: AI-Generated Spreadsheets
The initial stage, as described by Hassid, centers on letting AI do the heavy lifting. This involves setting up tools such as Claude, connecting them to data sources like Google Drive, and employing a sophisticated prompt that specifies the data, purpose, required sheets with formulas, and desired formatting. Hassid emphasizes that a detailed prompt is crucial for unlocking the AI’s full potential, distinguishing advanced users from those making basic requests.
Level 2: AI-Assisted Editing
Moving to the second level, Hassid explains how to refine existing spreadsheets using AI. He advocates for integrating AI tools like ChatGPT directly into Google Sheets. This allows users to perform complex editing tasks with simple commands, such as visualizing data or summarizing information, by using specific tags. As Hassid notes, this significantly accelerates the editing process.
“Your edits are now one line + an @ tag.”
Level 3: Professional Iteration with AI
Hassid’s third level focuses on iterating and enhancing spreadsheet structures using AI. This stage involves using AI for more complex modifications, such as adding new tabs for dashboards, creating scenario analyses (Base/Bull/Bear), or implementing conditional formatting. The core principle Hassid reiterates for this level is the importance of defining assumptions upfront.
“List your top 10 assumptions before executing.”
This single instruction, according to Hassid, elevates a spreadsheet from a simple data repository to a robust modeling tool capable of stress-testing decisions before they are made.
Level 4: Strategic AI Tool Selection
The final level of mastery, as presented by Ruben Hassid, involves understanding and selecting the appropriate AI tool for specific tasks. He differentiates between tools like Claude Cowork for creating from scratch, ChatGPT in Sheets for editing, and specialized platforms for dedicated spreadsheet work. This strategic selection empowers the user to become the decision-maker in the AI-assisted workflow.
Hassid concludes by painting a picture of rapid transformation, contrasting the previous day’s manual efforts with the potential to have AI build complex models and dashboards by the next. This progression, he argues, allows individuals to rapidly ascend to a high level of spreadsheet proficiency.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Ruben Hassid on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on June 5, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →