Mistakes in spelling can affect not only your writing credibility but also your confidence. Many learners often wonder whether Excell or Excel is the right form.
At first glance, both look correct but only one is standard English. This article unpacks the difference, explains proper usage, and gives you memorable tips to ensure you never confuse the two again.
Why Spelling Matters in English
In professional writing, a single extra letter can change how your message is perceived. Using an incorrect form like Excell may seem minor, but it can make your emails, resumes, or academic work look careless.
According to Grammarly’s 2024 report, nearly 59% of employers consider spelling errors a red flag in applications (Grammarly, 2024).
When it comes to Excel vs. Excell, the correct spelling is Excel and it carries multiple uses in both everyday and professional contexts.
The Correct Spelling: Excel
The word Excel means to be exceptionally good at something or to surpass others in a particular area. For example:
- “She excels in mathematics.”
- “The team excelled during the competition.”
It originates from the Latin excellere, meaning rise up or be eminent. The verb has been in use since the 14th century and remains standard in both American and British English.
Excell: A Common Misspelling
Adding the extra ‘l’ at the end (Excell) is simply an error. It does not exist in standard dictionaries such as Merriam-Webster or the Oxford English Dictionary. However, many learners mistakenly type it because:
- Words like “excellent” contain a double l, leading to confusion.
- Auto-correct or fast typing creates unintended spelling errors.
Excel in the Modern World
Excel as a Verb
In its verb form, excel applies to personal skills, academics, sports, and even careers. Example:
- “John excelled at public speaking after months of practice.”
Excel as a Brand Name
Microsoft Excel, the spreadsheet software, has further popularized the word. Today, many people associate Excel more with data management than language. For instance:
- “I created the budget report in Excel.”
This dual relevance linguistic and technological makes knowing the right spelling even more critical.
Real-Life Example: When “Excell” Caused Confusion
A university student once submitted a research paper with repeated references to “Microsoft Excell.” The professor, thinking it was a new software tool, initially flagged it for clarification.
Only later did they realize the student had consistently misspelled Excel. The error not only cost marks but also embarrassed the student in front of peers.
This illustrates how small mistakes in spelling can have significant academic or professional consequences.
Also Read:
Cacoon or Cocoon: Correct Spelling & Usage Explained
Privilege or Priviledge: Correct Spelling Explained
Drier or Dryer: What’s the Difference?
Other Than or Other Then: Correct Usage Explained
Excel vs Accel: Can You Spell It Right?
How to Remember the Difference
Here are simple memory aids:
- ✅ Excel = One L → Think: “Level up with one L.”
- ❌ Excell → Incorrect, no dictionary entry.
- Connect with excellent: While excellent has two Ls, the verb excel does not.
Comparison Table: Excel vs. Excell
| Term | Meaning | Dictionary Recognition | Example Usage | Correct? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Excel | To surpass, do very well | ✔ Yes | “She excels at coding.” | ✅ Correct |
| Excell | None (misspelling) | ✘ No | “He will excell in sports.” | ❌ Incorrect |
Pros and Cons of Using “Excel”
Pros:
- Correct, recognized in all dictionaries
- Widely understood in professional and academic settings
- Matches brand recognition (Microsoft Excel)
Cons (if confused):
- Easy to mix up with “excellent”
- Commonly mistyped due to double L words
Actionable Checklist: Avoiding Spelling Mistakes
- ✅ Double-check words ending with -el vs. -ell
- ✅ Use trusted dictionaries like Merriam-Webster or Oxford
- ✅ Rely on spell-check tools, but confirm manually
- ✅ Practice with example sentences: “I excel at writing.”
FAQs
Is “Excell” ever correct?
No. Excell is a misspelling. The standard form is Excel.
Why do people confuse “Excel” with “Excell”?
Because of words like excellent, which contain a double “l,” learners mistakenly assume excel follows the same pattern.
Is Excel a proper noun when referring to Microsoft?
Yes. When referring to Microsoft’s software, Excel is capitalized as a brand name.
Can I use “excelled” in past tense?
Absolutely. Example: “She excelled in her final exams.”
What’s the adjective form of “excel”?
The adjective is excellent. Example: “He gave an excellent performance.”
Conclusion
To wrap it up: the accurate spelling is Excel, not Excell. Remember Excel means to succeed, to surpass, and to shine. Whether you’re writing about achievements or spreadsheets, the right spelling makes your writing professional and credible.
Call to Action
Want to sharpen your English and write successfully every time?
Check out our Grammar Checker Tool and never second-guess your spelling again!
Read our guide on Common English Misspellings to boost your skills even further.
Sources List
Sources:
- Grammarly. (2024). The State of Writing at Work Report. Retrieved from https://www.grammarly.com
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary. (2025). Excel. Retrieved from https://www.merriam-webster.com
- Oxford English Dictionary. (2025). Excel. Retrieved from https://www.oed.com
Read more knowledgeable blogs on Curiosity Tap
Is this article helpful?
Jackson Pearson is a passionate educator and language enthusiast behind the blog Jackson Pearson. With years of experience in teaching and writing, he specializes in simplifying complex grammar rules, breaking down tricky vocabulary, and crafting learning guides that are both engaging and practical. His mission is to help readers boost their English skills whether they’re beginners or brushing up for fluency. Through every article, Jackson brings clarity, structure, and a spark of curiosity to the world of English learning.
