How To Find A Previous Version Of An Excel File In Excel

Finding a previous version of an Excel file can be crucial for recovering data or reviewing past iterations of a project. The process involves navigating through various built-in features or exploiting third-party tools.

We will detail step-by-step methods to retrieve earlier versions of Excel files, be they overwritten or unsaved. Tips on using file history, temporary files, and auto-recovery will be highlighted.

Lastly, we'll explore why Sourcetable provides a more streamlined solution for accessing different versions of your data compared to the native options in Excel.

Finding a Previous Version of an Excel File

Access Excel File Version History in OneDrive or SharePoint

To revert to an earlier Excel file version in Microsoft 365, use OneDrive or SharePoint. Locate the file and access version history for up to 25 versions with a personal Microsoft account, while work or school accounts depend on library configuration. SharePoint libraries in Microsoft 365 also offer version tracking, sharing capabilities, and recycle bin storage. These tools can be enabled or configured for advanced versioning needs.

Using Excel's AutoRecover Feature

AutoRecover in Excel saves your file periodically as you work. Retrieve previous versions using AutoRecover by navigating to Manage Workbook. This feature minimizes data loss in cases of software crashes or accidental closures.

Version Comparison and Restoration

To review differences between versions or restore to a previous state, use the Compare option. Choose the desired version and select Restore, or use Save As to create a new file with the previous version's content.

SharePoint Versioning for Excel Files

View and manage historical versions of Excel files in SharePoint by using its comprehensive versioning feature. This is particularly useful when rectifying mistakes, addressing malware issues, or when preferring an earlier file version. SharePoint's versioning tools allow for efficient tracking and management of file iterations.

Excel vs Sourcetable: Streamlining Data Management

Excel, a traditional data management tool, requires manual data integration. In contrast, Sourcetable automates this process by consolidating multiple data sources into one interface. This modern solution simplifies querying and analysis in a user-friendly, spreadsheet-like environment.

Sourcetable's AI copilot differentiates it further, aiding in formula creation and templating. Users interact with an advanced AI to effortlessly perform complex tasks, making Sourcetable more accessible to all skill levels and minimizing the learning curve associated with high-level data manipulation.

While both Excel and Sourcetable offer spreadsheet functionalities, Sourcetable excels in providing a more integrated, automated, and beginner-friendly experience. Its data management capabilities are particularly advantageous for small teams seeking efficient business intelligence solutions.

Master Your Spreadsheet Versions with Sourcetable

Tracking down previous versions of an Excel file can be a complex task, but Sourcetable simplifies this process. With its advanced AI capabilities, Sourcetable streamlines data management, making it a breeze to recover past file iterations.

Integrating effortlessly with various third-party tools, Sourcetable ensures real-time data access within an intuitive interface. Team collaboration is no longer hindered by cumbersome spreadsheet versioning.

Embrace the power of automation for your spreadsheets with Sourcetable. From generating automated reports to dissecting complex formula questions, Sourcetable's AI stands ready to assist.

Maximize your productivity and data mastery. Try Sourcetable today.