How To Pull Data From A Table In Excel

How to Pull Data from a Table in Excel

Using Power Query

To load a table into Power Query, first navigate to your table, then select Data > Get & Transform Data > From Table/Range. Power Query will create a new worksheet where you can manipulate this data without affecting the original source. It's advisable to rename this worksheet for clarity. Additional transformations are applied to this new sheet, allowing you to experiment with various data manipulation tools found in the Home, Transform, and Add Column tabs. The View tab offers access to the Advanced Query Editor for more complex operations.

Utilizing Excel Functions

The built-in functions LOOKUP, VLOOKUP, INDEX, MATCH, and OFFSET enable data extraction within Excel. Use LOOKUP for sorted tables and combine it with VLOOKUP or INDEX and MATCH functions for optimal search results. VLOOKUP is effective for unsorted tables, searching the left-most column and returning values from the specified row. For advanced lookup capabilities, pair INDEX and MATCH or OFFSET and MATCH functions to replicate LOOKUP and VLOOKUP outcomes.

Manual and Filtering Methods

Manual data extraction can be performed by simply copying and pasting data. Alternatively, apply filters to extract precise data subsets. This method is a one-time action, suitable for static data sets.

Automated Extraction with Coupler.io

Coupler.io is a tool for automated data extraction from Excel, allowing users to connect to their Microsoft account and pull data from multiple sheets. Automate exports between workbooks, to various destinations, and even on a schedule. Coupler.io's flexibility lets you organize your data by renaming, rearranging, hiding, or adding columns and applying filters and sorting. Custom formulas can be created for new columns, and data can be loaded to a destination of your choice, with automatic refresh options available to keep your data up-to-date.

Functions and Formulas for Data Automation

If routinely updating data is necessary, utilizing functions and formulas surpass the one-off action of filters by providing automatic updates. This approach is recommended for dynamic datasets where continuous data manipulation is required.

Excel vs Sourcetable: Streamlined Data Management and Analysis

Excel, a robust tool developed by Microsoft, traditionally excels at data manipulation tasks such as budgeting, analysis, and complex calculations. In contrast, Sourcetable provides a centralized solution for business operations and growth teams, syncing data from 100+ applications into a unified interface without the need for coding.

While Excel offers extensive versatility and can be customized with add-ons and macros, it falls short in real-time collaboration and seamless integration with multiple data sources. Sourcetable enhances your data management experience with an AI copilot, facilitating formula creation and template usage through conversational interactions.

Sourcetable’s contemporary, spreadsheet-like interface is ideal for users who seek accessible business intelligence capabilities and automated model updates. The tool’s pricing starts at $50/month for its starter plan and $250/month for the pro plan, both coming with a 14-day free trial, in comparison to Excel's varied cost structure based on version and licensing.

For businesses that prioritize streamlined BI solutions and efficient data analysis over traditional spreadsheet functionality, Sourcetable emerges as a user-friendly alternative to Excel, offering a more streamlined integration and collaboration experience.