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How To Convert Excel To TXT File In Excel

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Introduction

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.

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Convert Excel to TXT File

Understanding TXT Conversion

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.

Excel to TXT Conversion Guide

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.

Exporting Excel Workbook as TXT

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.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

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.

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Key Use Cases for Excel to Text Conversion

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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Sourcetable vs Excel: The AI Revolution in Spreadsheets

While Excel relies on manual functions and features for data analysis, Sourcetable revolutionizes spreadsheet work with its AI-powered interface. Instead of learning complex formulas and features, users simply chat with Sourcetable's AI to create spreadsheets, analyze data, and generate visualizations instantly. Whether you're working with uploaded files or connected databases, Sourcetable transforms complex data tasks into simple conversations.

Natural Language vs Formula Syntax

Excel requires users to master hundreds of functions and complex formula syntax. Sourcetable eliminates this learning curve by letting users describe their analysis needs in plain English to its AI chatbot.

Data Processing and Analysis

While Excel struggles with large datasets and complex calculations, Sourcetable handles files of any size and performs sophisticated analysis through simple AI chat commands. Users can upload CSV files, Excel spreadsheets, or connect databases directly.

Visualization and Reporting

Instead of manually creating charts and formatting data in Excel, Sourcetable's AI instantly generates stunning visualizations based on your requirements. Ready to transform your spreadsheet experience? Sign up for Sourcetable to answer any spreadsheet question instantly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the simplest way to convert an Excel file to a TXT file?

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.

Can I convert Excel to TXT by changing the file extension?

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

What are the different methods to convert Excel 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.

Conclusion

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.

Get started with smarter spreadsheet management by visiting Sourcetable today.



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