How To Change Data Type In Excel

Changing data types in Excel is a fundamental skill for ensuring accuracy in data analysis and reporting. Understanding how to modify data types can help prevent errors and improve your spreadsheets' functionality.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for altering data types in Excel. It covers various data types such as text, numbers, dates, and more.

We will also explore why Sourcetable provides a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for changing data types compared to traditional methods in Excel.

How to Change Data Type in Excel

Converting Data Types in Excel

To change a data type in Excel, begin by selecting the column containing the data you wish to convert. Click on the "Home" tab, followed by "Transform", then click on "Data Type". Select the desired data type, such as Date, Percentage, or Currency. Perform conversions like changing the Order Date from including time components to only the Date.

Handling Notifications

During the data type transformation, Excel may alert you to preexisting transformations. Ignore such notifications. They indicate that Power Query assumed a date transformation upon initial data load, but the current action will overwrite this.

Finalizing the Conversion

After transforming the data type, complete the process by returning the altered data to your Excel worksheet. In Power Query, navigate to "Home", then select "Close & Load". This action updates your worksheet with the converted data types.

Excel vs Sourcetable: Efficient Data Management and Analysis

Excel, a powerful spreadsheet tool from Microsoft, is known for its robust functionality in data analysis, budgeting, and various data manipulation tasks. While it excels at complex calculations and deep data analysis, it can be enhanced with add-ons and macros for additional features.

Sourcetable positions itself as a contemporary alternative, offering a web-based spreadsheet application that excels in aggregating data from over 100 applications and databases, enabling live models that update in real-time.

The AI copilot feature of Sourcetable streamlines formula creation and offers template assistance through a user-friendly chat interface, a notable advantage over Excel's manual process.

When it comes to sharing and collaboration, Sourcetable provides a more seamless experience compared to the more traditional methods of Excel. With real-time syncing and a centralized approach to data management, Sourcetable is designed to meet the dynamic needs of growth teams and business operations.

While Excel is a versatile platform compatible across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, Sourcetable's ease of use and specialized reporting features make it a strong contender for businesses seeking a modern BI solution.

Cost-wise, Excel varies based on version and licensing, whereas Sourcetable offers straightforward pricing with a monthly fee of $50 for the starter plan and $250 for the pro plan, with a 14-day free trial available.

Master Data Type Changes with Sourcetable

Changing data types in Excel is a fundamental skill for data management. Sourcetable streamlines this process, enabling you to transform data types effortlessly. With AI integration, Sourcetable provides a powerful tool to automate and simplify spreadsheet tasks.

The seamless integration with third-party tools enhances Sourcetable's capability, giving you real-time data access in a user-friendly interface. Bearing the complexity of spreadsheets, Sourcetable's AI is your ally, ready to assist with any formula or data inquiry, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

Experience the ease of automating reports and finding answers to your data-related questions. Try Sourcetable today and empower your team with cutting-edge spreadsheet solutions.