Splitting an Excel workbook into separate files is a common task for data organization and management. This process can be time-consuming and requires a series of steps to be done manually or through VBA scripts.
Despite Excel's capabilities, there are simpler alternatives, such as Sourcetable, which streamline this process. In the following sections, we'll delve into the methods for splitting a workbook and explore why Sourcetable offers a more efficient approach than traditional Excel procedures.
To split each sheet in an Excel workbook into separate files, employ a VBA macro provided in a detailed tutorial from trumpexcel.com. This VBA code effectively separates all worksheets quickly into individual files and can be stored in any chosen folder. A backup of the main Excel file is advised to avoid data loss. Enable macros by saving the workbook as a .XLSM file before running the VBA code. Additionally, the VBA code optimizes the process by turning off screen updating and display alerts using Application.ScreenUpdating = False and Application.DisplayAlerts = False.
If you need to split a large Excel file into multiple workbooks based on column entries, combine Power Query transformations with a VBA macro. Transform your data using Power Query, save your changes, and then run the VBA macro for splitting the file into distinct workbooks. The macro code for this technique is accessible at excelbianalytics.com.
Sumit Bansal's tutorial on trumpexcel.com further explains how to not only split sheets but also save them as separate PDF files. It includes VBA codes catering to specific requirements such as splitting and saving sheets that contain a particular word in their name. Placement of the VBA code within the workbook is explicated to ensure proper functioning. Backup and saving the file in .XLSM format remain best practices.
The provided VBA code utilizes a straightforward For Next loop to navigate through each worksheet, create copies, and then save these copies into the predetermined folder. Remember to maintain the .XLSM format for conserving the macro functionalities of the workbook.
Use case 1: Sharing specific sections of a large dataset with different team members without distributing the entire file
Use case 2: Creating individual departmental reports from a consolidated company workbook
Use case 3: Organizing and managing different datasets separately to improve performance and reduce complexity
Use case 4: Generating targeted backups for critical subsets of data
Sourcetable emerges as a centralized spreadsheet alternative, enabling efficient data synchronization from over 100 applications without requiring complex coding skills, unlike Excel. Its spreadsheet-like interface offers familiarity, yet enhances data management tasks through AI-driven assistance and no-code querying features.
The AI copilot in Sourcetable distinguishes it from Excel, guiding users through formula creation and template usage via a conversational chat interface. This advanced feature simplifies data manipulation, making Sourcetable more accessible than the traditional functionalities of Excel.
While Excel is a robust tool for in-depth data analysis and intricate calculations, its connectivity to various data sources is limited without additional tools. Sourcetable excels in integrating disparate data services into one user-friendly platform, moving beyond Excel's scope for real-time collaboration.
Real-time collaboration and interactive reporting are streamlined in Sourcetable, offering a cohesive dashboard experience. These features make Sourcetable a compelling choice for modern data management, particularly for growth teams and business operations specialists.
In summary, while splitting a workbook in Excel can be tackled through various traditional methods, Sourcetable streamlines this process with its robust AI capabilities. Its seamless integration with third-party tools and real-time data access simplify the workflow for the entire team.
With Sourcetable, automating reports and discovering insights with spreadsheet formulas becomes straightforward, empowering you to focus less on spreadsheet mechanics and more on strategic analysis.
Enhance your spreadsheet management today by visiting Sourcetable and experience the ease of answering any data question at your fingertips.