How To Update Links In Excel

Introduction

Keeping Excel links up-to-date is crucial for maintaining data accuracy and integrity in your spreadsheets. Understanding how to effectively manage and update these links can be time-consuming and complex for Excel users.

This guide provides straightforward instructions on updating Excel links, but we'll also show why Sourcetable's AI-powered approach eliminates the need for manual link management altogether. Instead of dealing with Excel's tedious functions, you can simply chat with Sourcetable's AI to analyze data, create visualizations, and manage spreadsheets effortlessly - try Sourcetable now to experience the difference.

How to Update Excel Links

Refreshing Workbook Links

To update workbook links and obtain the latest values, refresh the links through the Workbook Links pane. Access this pane by navigating to Data > Queries and Connections > Workbook Links in Excel. Alternatively, opt for automatic refresh by selecting the Options (...) at the top right corner of the pane and choosing Refresh automatically. Remember, links must be maintained regularly, and broken links can occur if the source workbook is altered.

Managing Unused or Broken Links

When workbook links are obsolete or broken due to changes in the source workbook, they may require removal. To eliminate these links, formulas can be replaced with their current calculated values. This process is irreversible unless the Undo function is used immediately after replacement. Note that there is no built-in feature to locate all workbook links within a workbook.

Updating Links to External Workbooks

For users working with a dashboard linked to a raw data workbook, updating without opening the large source file is preferable. If the dashboard fails to update and returns a #VALUE error when the source is not open, consider keeping both workbooks open during updates. Excel does not automatically update links upon saving a workbook; the source data workbook must be open to refresh the dashboard links.

Replacing Formulas with Values

To prevent links from needing updates, convert formulas to their calculated values. This action permanently removes the formula, which is beneficial if the workbook links are no longer necessary. However, if you need to reverse this action, use the Undo command immediately after pasting the values.

Excel vs. Sourcetable: A New Era of Spreadsheets

While Excel has been the standard for spreadsheet analysis for decades, Sourcetable represents a revolutionary shift toward AI-powered data analysis. Instead of manually working with complex functions and features, Sourcetable transforms spreadsheet work into a simple conversation with an AI chatbot that handles all the heavy lifting for you.

Natural Language Interface

Excel requires users to learn complex functions and keyboard shortcuts. Sourcetable eliminates this learning curve by letting users simply describe what they want to accomplish in plain English. The AI chatbot understands and executes your requests, from data analysis to chart creation.

Powerful Data Processing

Unlike Excel's size limitations, Sourcetable handles files of any size and connects directly to databases. Users can upload CSV, XLSX files or connect their database to perform comprehensive analysis through simple chat commands.

AI-Powered Analysis and Visualization

While Excel demands manual formula creation and chart formatting, Sourcetable's AI automatically generates analysis, creates stunning visualizations, and even produces sample data sets based on your requirements. Simply tell the AI what insights you need, and it delivers the results instantly. Ready to transform your spreadsheet experience? Sign up for Sourcetable and start getting answers to any spreadsheet question today.

Conclusion

Updating Excel links can be complex and time-consuming. Manual updates require multiple steps and technical knowledge.

Sourcetable eliminates these challenges. Its AI chatbot instantly answers any spreadsheet question and helps create new spreadsheets effortlessly.

Get started with Sourcetable today.