Please Note: This article is written for users of the following Microsoft Excel versions: 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. If you are using a later version (Excel 2007 or later), this tip may not work for you. For a version of this tip written specifically for later versions of Excel, click here: Creating a CSV File.

Creating a CSV File

by Allen Wyatt
(last updated June 28, 2019)

2

CSV is one of those over-abundant computer acronyms. It means "comma-separated values." It refers to a type of file that is often used for transferring simple data from one program to another. In the file, each value is separated by a comma. The importing program knows that when it sees a comma, it can toss it out but it needs to get ready to accept a new value.

If you have information in Excel that you want to get into a different data-oriented program, chances are good that the other program will accept CSV files. In order to save your workbook data in CSV format, follow these steps:

  1. Choose Save As from the File menu. Excel displays the Save As dialog box.
  2. In the Save As Type drop-down list at the bottom of the dialog box, choose the CSV (Comma delimited) option.
  3. Use the other controls in the dialog box to specify a file name and location.
  4. Click on Save.
  5. Excel may display a dialog box telling you that not all Excel features can be maintained in the format you have chosen. Click on Yes to continue saving the information in CSV format.

At this point your worksheet is saved in CSV format. I generally find it a good idea to close the workbook, without saving. At this point you will have your original Excel workbook (in Excel format) and the CSV file, which contains the information you wanted in CSV format.

ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (2483) applies to Microsoft Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. You can find a version of this tip for the ribbon interface of Excel (Excel 2007 and later) here: Creating a CSV File.

Author Bio

Allen Wyatt

With more than 50 non-fiction books and numerous magazine articles to his credit, Allen Wyatt is an internationally recognized author. He is president of Sharon Parq Associates, a computer and publishing services company. ...

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If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 5 + 2?

2016-08-31 05:56:56

jenifer

HI.....i have converted my excel sheet into csv file....but while uploading it to dimension in planning application its not working.....so pls help me

2015-07-01 23:33:48

Chris

I have MS Office 2013.
I need to 'Save As' CSV (MS Dos) this plus CSV Macintosh are both missing as a save as option.? Only CSV (Comma....) available. I have run a repair and uninstalled then reinstall of Office updated still no options, also made sure all add-in's are available, nothing...
No real help online on this any idea's before I look at a re-image.?
Thx

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