Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated August 8, 2020)
This tip applies to Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003
Excel includes a built-in file filtering system that allows you to open many other types of files automatically. For instance, you may be able to open files originally created in a different spreadsheet program, such as 1-2-3 or Quattro Pro. Notice that I said you "may be able" to do this. The fuzziness here is because your particular installation of Excel may not allow you to load such files. Exactly which filters were installed depends on which options were chosen during installation.
When you attempt to open a file other than a native Excel file, the program attempts to do a conversion to the Excel format. If a conversion is not possible, an error results and you are notified. If Excel needs additional information to do the conversion, you are presented with a series of dialog boxes that allow you to specify the parameters Excel will use when converting information. (This most often occurs when you attempt to load text files.)
The best way to see if Excel will open a particular file is simply to try it. If there is a problem, you can then check the Excel Setup program to see if there is a filter which you can load from your program CD. You can also check Microsoft's Web site (http://www.microsoft.com/) to see if they have a particular filter you may need.
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (2002) applies to Microsoft Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003.
Program Successfully in Excel! This guide will provide you with all the information you need to automate any task in Excel and save time and effort. Learn how to extend Excel's functionality with VBA to create solutions not possible with the standard features. Includes latest information for Excel 2024 and Microsoft 365. Check out Mastering Excel VBA Programming today!
When you save your workbooks, Excel can also save a preview image (thumbnail) that can be displayed in the Open dialog ...
Discover MoreWhen you create a CSV file in Excel, the information stored in the file may not contain all the fields that you think it ...
Discover MoreIf you don't like the way that Excel exports information you intend to use with other programs, then your best bet is to ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
2021-04-30 10:21:16
Art
I wonder if, when attempting to "Open" through Excel, there was a way to see all types of files in the directory, not only Excel files. I understand that you can select option "all files" and then this will work. But that can get time-consuming if you have to open non-excel files on a regular basis.
2020-08-09 18:36:00
May
I use Lotus 123...a while ago I was able to "convert" my 123 files to Excell, and then all of a sudden they stopped with the conversions. I do have the "old" and the new files under Excell. Maybe you can tell by the ICON any suggestions you have...will try to include them here, but not sure if I can!
Save the workbook in the default file format (small x in upper left corner)
Save a copy of the workbook that is fully compatible with Excel 97-2003 ( Large X in upper left corner)
I have saved the Compatible with 97-2003 files, but not sure they will let me make changes to them, ie; update them
Got a version of Excel that uses the menu interface (Excel 97, Excel 2000, Excel 2002, or Excel 2003)? This site is for you! If you use a later version of Excel, visit our ExcelTips site focusing on the ribbon interface.
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2026 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments