This can help you perform operations on the data and execute your desired functions. If you receive a CSV file and want to access the data inside, you can convert the file into an XLS file. There are a few reasons you might need to convert CSV data into an Excel file, including: To accept large filesĮxtensive databases often export their files into a CSV format because the files they send are so large. Why would you need to convert a CSV file to an Excel file? You can access CSV files using text editors, but you can't open an Excel file in those same programs. In Excel, users can manipulate and perform operations on the data within the file, unlike in a CSV file where you can't use formulas and other functions to analyze data.Ī benefit of CSV files is that they often use less memory and can import data faster than an XLS file can. Excel files, or XLS files, use a binary file format that saves both the file's content and formatting. XLS fileĬSV files save in a plain text format, using commas to separate different values. You can exchange data between two programs if they're both able to open CSV files. This format can make it easier to share structured data, like spreadsheets, between programs that might not be compatible with other file types.

CSV files use commas to separate information. CSV files can contain all the same information as other types of files, but they differ in how they organize their content. What is a CSV file?Ī comma-separated values file, or CSV file, is a text file that's compatible with lots of different programs, especially in programs that use plain text to display their content. In this article, we explain what a CSV file is, describe how it differs from an Excel file, list steps for converting a CSV file to Excel and offer tips for maximizing your success within Excel.

Learning to open these files in Excel can make it easier for you to access their content and edit them.

If you're working with large data files regularly, you might encounter CSV files, which are plain text files that are often easier to send electronically and use between different programs. Saving your work in different file formats can help you send data more easily, use program functions to analyze your data and open files between formats successfully.

Convert csv to excel