In a typical spreadsheet program such as Microsoft Excel or similar software, data is organized in a grid. How is the data structure of a spreadsheet commonly described?

Introduction / Context:
This question focuses on basic computer literacy related to spreadsheet programs such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or LibreOffice Calc. These tools are widely used for data analysis, accounting, and many other tasks. Understanding the fundamental structure of a spreadsheet is critical for working effectively with formulas, ranges, charts, and data operations. The grid structure that combines rows and columns is a key concept that enables powerful features like sorting, filtering, and referencing specific cells.

Given Data / Assumptions:
The question asks how data is organized in a spreadsheet program. The options include only rows, only columns, both rows and columns, or no structure. We assume a standard spreadsheet interface with labeled column headings along the top (usually letters) and row numbers along the left side. We also assume that each intersection of a row and column forms a cell where data or formulas can be entered.

Concept / Approach:
A spreadsheet is essentially a two dimensional grid. Rows run horizontally and are typically numbered 1, 2, 3, and so on. Columns run vertically and are labeled with letters such as A, B, C, and later combinations like AA or AB. Each cell is referred to by a combination of column letter and row number, such as A1 or C5. Because data lives in these cells at the intersections, it is correct to say that a spreadsheet organizes data in both rows and columns. This grid structure is what differentiates spreadsheet software from simple text files and makes formulas like SUM(A1:A10) possible.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Visualize a spreadsheet window, noting horizontal rows and vertical columns.Step 2: Observe that each cell is at the intersection of a specific row and a specific column.Step 3: Understand that formulas, references, and functions all rely on this grid structure for addressing data locations.Step 4: Conclude that a spreadsheet organizes data in both rows and columns, not in just one dimension or randomly.

Verification / Alternative check:
You can confirm this organization by opening any spreadsheet application and entering some values. The interface clearly labels columns at the top and rows on the left. Clicking a cell shows its address, which combines the row and column identifiers. Functions like SUM, AVERAGE, and VLOOKUP further demonstrate that the program expects data to be arranged in a grid. Documentation and tutorials for spreadsheet programs consistently describe them as two dimensional tables organized by rows and columns.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A is wrong because spreadsheet data is not only in rows; without columns, you would not have individual cells. Option B is wrong for the same reason; columns alone are not sufficient to describe a spreadsheet structure. Option D is wrong because spreadsheets are specifically designed to impose a clear structure rather than leave data unorganized. Only option C correctly states that spreadsheets are organized in both rows and columns, forming a grid of cells that can be referenced and manipulated.

Common Pitfalls:
Some beginners mistakenly think of a spreadsheet as a simple list and ignore the power of columns for categorizing data and rows for individual records. Others may confuse spreadsheets with databases or documents and overlook how important cell addresses are. It is also common to underestimate the value of proper organization, leading to messy sheets that are hard to maintain. Keeping the grid structure in mind and carefully placing each type of data in the correct column and row helps maintain clarity and enables more advanced operations later.

Final Answer:
The correct answer is It is organized in both rows and columns, forming a grid of cells.