Convert Excel to TXT File

Understanding TXT Conversion

To convert an Excel file with data in columns to a TXT file, it is important to know that directly saving to TXT may lead to disorganized columns. To maintain organization, save as a space-delimited (.prn) file or a Text (Tab delimited) (*.txt) file. However, be aware of the character limitations in the .prn format. Choosing the Text (Tab delimited) option ensures data remains organized, separated by tabs unless conversion issues occur.

Excel to TXT Conversion Guide

In Excel 2016, before converting a table to TXT, select any cell within the table to access the "Table Tools Design" tab. From there, choose "Convert to Range" to prepare the table for conversion.

Exporting Excel Workbook as TXT

To save an Excel workbook as a TXT file, be mindful that not all workbook formatting, data, and features will be preserved. All formatting is lost when saving in TXT format. The text file format that will be applied varies depending on the active sheet in the workbook. Similarly, CSV formats are contingent on the active sheet type.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

To convert to TXT, open the desired workbook, navigate to "File" > "Save As" and select "Text (Tab delimited) (*.txt)" from the file type options. This method ensures data is organized with tab characters separating each field.

Common Use Cases

• 
  Data sharing with users who do not have Excel
• 
  Creating simple backup files of Excel data
• 
  Facilitating data import into plain text processing software
• 
  Enabling data analysis with tools that require text file input
• 
  Streamlining the process of uploading Excel data to web platforms

Excel vs. Sourcetable: A Technical Comparison

Excel, a longstanding leader in spreadsheet software, offers robust data analysis tools but requires manual data integration. Sourcetable streamlines data consolidation from multiple sources, enhancing efficiency for data-driven tasks.

Sourcetable introduces an AI copilot, a feature absent in Excel, to simplify formula creation and template design, reducing the learning curve for advanced spreadsheet operations.

The AI copilot in Sourcetable transforms user queries into actionable insights, a leap beyond Excel's traditional formula-based approach, catering to a broader user base with varying technical expertise.