Converting Excel files to TXT format is a common task for users seeking to simplify data sharing or transition between different software applications. This process can be essential for ensuring compatibility and accessibility across various platforms.
While Excel offers built-in features to save spreadsheets as text files, traditional methods can be tedious and time-consuming. In the following sections, we'll explore how Sourcetable, an AI-powered spreadsheet solution, simplifies file conversions and data analysis through natural language commands - try Sourcetable now to effortlessly handle any spreadsheet task.
To convert an Excel file with data in columns to a TXT file, it is important to know that directly saving to TXT may lead to disorganized columns. To maintain organization, save as a space-delimited (.prn) file or a Text (Tab delimited) (*.txt) file. However, be aware of the character limitations in the .prn format. Choosing the Text (Tab delimited) option ensures data remains organized, separated by tabs unless conversion issues occur.
In Excel 2016, before converting a table to TXT, select any cell within the table to access the "Table Tools Design" tab. From there, choose "Convert to Range" to prepare the table for conversion.
To save an Excel workbook as a TXT file, be mindful that not all workbook formatting, data, and features will be preserved. All formatting is lost when saving in TXT format. The text file format that will be applied varies depending on the active sheet in the workbook. Similarly, CSV formats are contingent on the active sheet type.
To convert to TXT, open the desired workbook, navigate to "File" > "Save As" and select "Text (Tab delimited) (*.txt)" from the file type options. This method ensures data is organized with tab characters separating each field.
Share Data with Non-Excel Users |
Convert spreadsheets to text format to ensure universal accessibility. This allows colleagues or clients who don't have Excel to still view and work with the data using basic text editors. |
Create Simple Data Backups |
Text files serve as lightweight, portable backups of Excel data. They take up minimal storage space and can be easily archived or transferred across systems. |
Enable Plain Text Processing |
Transform Excel data into a format compatible with text processing applications. This allows for specialized text analysis, pattern matching, and data manipulation that might not be possible within Excel. |
Support Text-Based Analysis Tools |
Many data analysis tools and scripts require text file inputs to function. Converting Excel files to text format opens up possibilities for advanced analysis using these specialized tools. |
Simplify Web Platform Integration |
Many web platforms and databases accept text file uploads for data integration. Converting Excel files to text format streamlines the process of moving data to online systems and web applications. |
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Open the Excel file, click File, then Save As, choose the save location, click the Save as type dropdown menu, and select the TXT file format option.
Yes, you can save the Excel file as a CSV first, then right click the saved file and rename it by changing the .csv extension to .txt
There are several methods: saving directly as a TXT file through Excel's Save As function, saving as CSV then renaming to TXT, or copying Excel data to paste into a text editor.
Converting Excel files to TXT format can be done through various methods. While manual conversion works, modern tools offer faster solutions.
Sourcetable eliminates the complexity of file conversions and other spreadsheet tasks. Its AI chatbot provides instant answers to any spreadsheet-related question.
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