Break Links in Excel and Keep Values

Using Copy Paste Special, Values

To break links in Excel and retain the data, use the 'Copy Paste Special, Values' feature. Copy the cells with external links and use 'Paste Special' to paste only the values in place of the original formulas. This converts the linked data to static values.

Using Edit - Links Feature

In Excel, you can break links via the 'Edit - Links' feature. Navigate to 'Data' and select 'Edit Links'. Choose the links to break and click 'Break Link'. This action replaces external references with their current values.

For Excel Versions Without Edit - Links

Office 2000 lacks the 'Edit - Links' feature. As an alternative, manually copy and paste cell values or use VBA code to break links and convert them to static values.

VBA Code to Break Links

Use provided VBA code to identify and break links in Excel. The code generates an 'All Links report' detailing external sources. Run this code to create a list of links, and then manually replace them with their current values.

Handling Objects, Charts, and Defined Names

External references in objects, charts, or defined names require manual checking. Use 'Find' for cells, inspect 'Refers To' in 'Name Manager' for defined names, and verify chart titles and data series for charts. Replace each link with its current value.

Common Use Cases

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  Removing dependencies on external files while preserving data
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  Securing sensitive data before sharing the spreadsheet
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  Improving spreadsheet performance by reducing formula calculations
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  Creating a static data set for archival purposes
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  Preventing inadvertent changes to critical data by removing formulas

Excel vs Sourcetable: A Comparative Analysis

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