How To Convert Text File In Excel

Convert Text File to Excel

To convert a text file to an Excel spreadsheet, you have two primary options: open the text file directly in Excel or import it as an external data range. Excel retains the original format of the text file while allowing the manipulation of its content within an Excel workbook.

Opening Text Files in Excel

Utilize the Open command in Excel to open .txt or .csv files directly. This approach maintains the text file's original structure and format. Both .txt and .csv formats are supported, providing flexibility in handling various text-based data sources.

Importing as External Data Range

For more control over data conversion, use the Get & Transform Data group or the Text Import Wizard (a legacy feature) to import data into an existing worksheet. These tools enable delimiter adjustments, essential for accurately segregating data points.

Exporting Excel Data to Text File

Use the Save As command to convert an Excel worksheet into a .txt or .csv file. Excel allows customization of the delimiter character and list separator through its Advanced options or Windows Region settings for broader compatibility across different systems and programs.

Limitations and Compatibility

Be mindful of Excel's import and export limitation of 1,048,576 rows and 16,384 columns. Note that text file formats might not support Excel's extensive feature set, potentially affecting the transfer of certain data elements.

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