Learning how to convert Excel to CSV is useful when transferring spreadsheet data between different applications, databases, and computer programs. CSV stands for Comma-Separated Values. It is a file format that stores spreadsheet information as plain text, with commas separating individual values. Unlike Excel files, CSV files do not preserve features such as colours, formulas, charts, and cell formatting. Fortunately, Microsoft Excel makes it easy to convert spreadsheets into CSV files.
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Open Your Excel Workbook
The first step is to open the Excel spreadsheet you want to convert.
Follow these instructions:
- Locate the Excel file on your computer.
- Double-click the file to open it in Microsoft Excel.
- Check that the spreadsheet contains the correct information.
- Remove unnecessary rows or columns if needed.
- Save any changes before starting the conversion.
Make sure your data is properly arranged because CSV files store information without the original Excel formatting.
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Use the Save As Option
Microsoft Excel has a built-in feature that allows you to save spreadsheets in CSV format.
Follow these steps:
- Click File in the top-left corner.
- Select Save As.
- Choose Browse to select a storage location.
- Enter a name for your new file.
- Open the Save as type dropdown menu.
- Select CSV (Comma delimited) (*.csv).
- Click Save.
Your Excel spreadsheet will now be saved as a CSV file.
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Confirm the CSV Format Warning
After selecting CSV, Microsoft Excel may display a warning explaining that some workbook features are not supported in this format.
The warning may indicate that formatting, multiple worksheets, formulas, and other Excel features will not be preserved.
To continue:
- Review the warning message.
- Click Use CSV Format or Yes, depending on your Excel version.
- Allow Excel to complete the saving process.
Your spreadsheet will be converted into a CSV file.
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Convert Excel to CSV Using Google Sheets
You can also convert Excel files into CSV using Google Sheets without installing additional software.
Follow these instructions:
- Open Google Drive.
- Upload your Excel workbook.
- Open the uploaded file using Google Sheets.
- Click File.
- Select Download.
- Choose Comma Separated Values (.csv).
- Wait for the download to finish.
Google Sheets will download the active worksheet as a CSV file.
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Convert Excel to CSV Using LibreOffice Calc
LibreOffice Calc is a free spreadsheet application that supports Excel and CSV formats.
To convert your file:
- Open LibreOffice Calc.
- Click File and select Open.
- Choose your Excel workbook.
- Click File again and select Save As.
- Select Text CSV (.csv) from the file type options.
- Enter your preferred file name.
- Click Save.
- Confirm the CSV format if prompted.
Your spreadsheet will be saved in CSV format.
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Check Your CSV File After Conversion
After converting your Excel spreadsheet, open the CSV file using a text editor or spreadsheet application to confirm that the information is correct.
Check the following:
- All important rows and columns are included.
- Text and numbers appear correctly.
- Commas and other special characters are handled properly.
- Dates and phone numbers have not changed unexpectedly.
- Leading zeros in identification numbers or phone numbers are preserved where required.
If your spreadsheet contains multiple worksheets, remember that saving as CSV normally exports only the active worksheet. Save each required worksheet separately if you need several CSV files.
Also Read: How to Convert PDF to Word
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