Fiona carmichael 5.0 out of 5 stars Reviewed in the United Kingdom This book explains what forecasting is, what it can and cannot do, its limitations and perhaps most importantly how to do it (using Excel). With the use of detailed examples and plain language Adam Simmons guides the reader through the basics of forecasting, the essentials of quantitative analysis and standard forecasting methods as well as more complex techniques and applications. Importantly, the book discusses in detail the range of factors at the macroeconomic, industry and firm level that need to be taken into account when making business forecasts. The book goes on to provide a detailed exploration of a range of forecasting techniques. First the concept of regression is explained and the reader is shown in a step by step way how to run regressions and interpret the results. Theory is then put into practice by looking in detail at short-term forecasting in part 6 while part 7 looks at long-term forecasting. The final chapters examine financial forecasting and how to appraise a forecast, how well it performed and how to address any weaknesses in forecasting. Throughout, the author’s deft handling of varied examples and techniques enables the reader to understand how forecasting is used, how to operationalise forecasting techniques and how to interpret the output of these techniques.