Microsoft Excel is an example of which of the following types of programs?

Microsoft Excel is categorized as a spreadsheet application because it is specifically designed for organizing, analyzing, and storing data in a tabular format using rows and columns. This functionality allows users to perform calculations, create graphs, and manage large sets of data efficiently. Spreadsheet applications enable users to apply formulas, which is a cornerstone feature of Excel, making it useful for tasks such as budgeting, financial analysis, and data visualization.

In contrast to spreadsheet applications, database management programs handle data in structured formats that are more complex and are typically used for storing, retrieving, and managing large volumes of data across multiple tables. Word processing applications focus on creating, editing, and formatting text documents, while graphics applications are designed for tasks related to visual design, image creation, or editing. Each type of program serves distinct purposes, with Excel uniquely positioned as a tool for performing calculations and data manipulation in a spreadsheet layout.