How to Import Text and Database Files in Excel 2007

When you need to import a Word document or an Access database file in Excel, resist the temptation to simply “open” the file with Office Button (File) – Open. Rather, follow the steps to “Get External Data” from the Data Tab on the Ribbon. This is how you can control the data type of each field that you import – especially important for formatting fields that contain dates. You also can control – and preview – who Excel will distribute the data into individual columns before you import the file.

Watch as I demonstrate these steps – this tip will save you a lot of time and avoid frustration.

(Note: This is a re-posting so that I can feed this video lesson to my Podcast at the iTunes store.)

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Get External Data in Excel 2007

I created this Excel Video Lesson in response to a viewer request. He wants to learn how to move files that contain dates, text and numbers from a different program into Excel. Excel 2007 gives you an easy to follow Wizard from the Data Tab of the Ribbon to Get External Data.

As I stress in this lesson – “Resist, resist, resist … the urge to go to the Office Button (File Menu) and choose Open. No, no , no… Use the Get External Data Wizard. Watch this short lesson to see how to bring information in from Word 2007 and from Access 2007. I also show you how to save an Excel 2007 file as a Text File (.txt) to make it easy to open it in almost any program.

If you enjoyed this lesson, I invite you to shop for my DVD, “The 50 Best Tips for Excel 2007.”The Store for The Company Rocks is a secure shopping site. And, I personally guarantee your satisfaction – or I will refund your purchase price! Click here to start shopping.

You can watch this Excel Training video on my YouTube Channel – DannyRocksExcels

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