Sometimes, while operating Excel, a situation arises when you want to convert your data from XLSX to CSV format. This conversion is frequent when sharing data across platforms or applications that may not support Excel's file format. In this article, I take you through a few simple methods to convert an XLSX file into CSV using Excel and other free software, including WPS Office. These steps are straightforward and fast to operate.
Why Convert XLSX to CSV?
Before explaining the ways of conversion, let's explain why one would even want to convert XLSX to CSV in the first place. The following are the common reasons:
Data Compatibility: The CSV files can easily be accessed with many programs, databases, and platforms. Sharing files in this format may prove better.
Less File Size: The file sizes of the CSV are usually less than those of XLSX. Hence, these are much easier to store or even transfer.
Simplicity: While Excel files may contain many sheets, formulas, and other advanced features, CSVs are just plain data- organized in rows and columns.
Data Import/Export: Most data applications and tools, including CRM systems and marketing platforms, use CSV to import and export data.
The aforementioned advantages explained will definitely help you make an informed decision when converting files for ease of use or compatibility with other software.
How to Convert XLSX to CSV Using Microsoft Excel
If you have Microsoft Excel installed in your computer system, then it is not a big deal to convert an XLSX file into its CSV equivalent. Here's how you can do that:
Step 1: Open the XLSX File
You must open the XLSX file you want to convert into Microsoft Excel. You can do this by double-clicking on the file or opening Excel and accessing the file through the 'Open' option.
Step 2: Save As CSV
In an opened Excel file:
1. In the left-hand corner, click on the tab that says "File."
2. Click on this menu option that says "Save As."
3. Save to the computer to where you prefer.
4. Then, in the window, select from the "Save as type, " go to "CSV (Comma delimited)" (*.csv), and
5. Click "Save"
Step 3: Check Conversion
A prompt will appear, informing you that only the active sheet in the workbook will be saved in CSV format since a CSV file does not support multiple sheets. Ok, if it is what you want, click OK. Excel might even warn you about features that CSV does not help. You may continue.
Step 4: Done!
Voila! Your XLSX is now a CSV file. You are free to use it on all kinds of other programs and platforms that support this format.
How to Convert XLSX to CSV Using Online Converters
Suppose you are one of those speed lovers and want web-based methods without installing software. In that case, there are a lot of free online converters that can enable you to convert XLSX to CSV. Here is how you can use an online converter:
Step 1: Choose an Online Converter
Search for "XLSX to CSV converter," and open a website like Zamzar, Convertio, or OnlineConvertFree.
Step 2: Upload Your XLSX File
Follow the website's on-screen commands to upload your XLSX file. Most websites take you to an interface where you can upload from your computer or cloud storage.
Step 3: Now convert it into CSV
After loading the file, select CSV in the format selector and click the Convert button.
Step 4: Save the CSV file
Once the conversion is complete, the website will provide a download link to your new CSV file, which you can save on your computer or in cloud storage.
Common Issues When Converting XLSX to CSV
As easy as converting an XLSX document into CSV might seem, you're likely to face several issues. Some of these are as follows:
1. Loss of Formatting
CSV files cannot store file formatting data, including font styles, colors, and cell borders. Therefore, advanced formatting in your XLSX will not survive the conversion process.
2. Multiple Sheets
It supports only one sheet of data on CSV. If the XLSX supports more than one, the active one would be saved into a CSV file. You must do them individually when you want them in different CSVs.
3. Special Characters
Unique or non-English letters may not be appropriately encoded into this CSV file. Choose the appropriate encoding (ordinarily UTF-8) upon saving to circumvent this.
WPS Office: The Great Alternative to Convert XLSX to CSV
WPS Office is the most hassle-free alternative to Microsoft Excel for free. With WPS Office, opening, editing, and saving in several Excel file formats, such as CSV, is not a problem. This software supports the full range of functions available in Excel but keeps the interface very tidy and straightforward. It is fully compatible with XLSX, CSV, and other popular spreadsheet formats so that it can be a great helper for personal and professional use.
Why choose WPS Office?
Free to use: Unlike some alternatives, WPS Office is free; it does not have a single charge.
Compatibility: WPS Office supports all popular file formats but is not confined to XLSX and CSV.
Convenience: Thanks to WPS Office, one is free to work with his files across devices, Mac and mobile, without losing anything in functionality.
Collaboration: With WPS Office, you can share your files and work online on anything.
Convert XLSX to CSV Using WPS Office
You can also convert an XLSX file using WPS Office without Microsoft Excel. This free office software can open and edit all Microsoft Office file formats, including XLSX. As explained below, you can use WPS Office to convert XLSX to CSV.
Step 1: Open the XLSX File
The steps involved are as follows: Open your XLSX file in the WPS spreadsheet application. To do this, open WPS Office and, at the top left, select Open to choose your XLSX file or drag and drop it there.
Step 2: Save As CSV
1 opened, click on "File" from the top bar.
2 After selecting "Save as."
3 Select CSV format in the "Save as type" segment from the list.
4. Choose where you want to save the file and click OK.
Step 3: Confirm and Save
WPS Office will pop up a message saying that only the active sheet will be saved in CSV format. If this is what you want, click OK.
Step 4: Done!
Now your file is a CSV! You can easily open it now in any program that supports CSV files: text editors, databases, and other spreadsheet applications.
FAQs
1. What is the vast difference between XLSX and CSV files?
XLSX is the format for Excel files, which can handle multiple sheets, complex formulae, and other data types such as images, charts, and formatting. A CSV is a simple text file format that holds data in comma-separated format on only one sheet and has no extra features.
2. How do I export an Excel workbook into one CSV?
No, in CSV files, only one sheet of data can exist. You'd have to convert each sheet to a different CSV individually.
3. Are there any free converters available from XLSX to CSV?
Yes, free converters such as WPS Office, Google Sheets, or an online converter like Zamzar, Convertio, etc., will keep you ahead while converting from XLSX into CSV.
Conclusion
The conversion of XLSX into CSV is the core competence of working with data. The process is straightforward whether you're using Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or WPS Office. It can be completed in just a few clicks. WPS Office is an excellent choice if you're looking for an easy-to-use and free tool to handle the conversion. It is fully compatible with Excel files, thus being an easy environment to work with when operating any spreadsheet document—the ability to use complete data functionality through smooth conversion of files in any format with WPS Office.
