Microsoft Excel’s new import functions make handling numbers easier
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CSV and text files can now spill directly into cells
Rubaitul Azad / Unsplash
If you often work with data that starts life as a text file or CSV, Microsoft Excel now has new built-in tools that simplify how that information gets pulled into a spreadsheet.
The update introduces two new functions, IMPORTTEXT and IMPORTCSV, designed to bring external data directly into Excel cells using formulas. Instead of going through the traditional import wizard every time, users can now load files straight into a worksheet and keep that data connected to its source.
How Excel’s new import functions work
The IMPORTTEXT function allows users to import data from text-based files such as TXT, CSV, and TSV. It supports custom delimiters, text qualifiers, and encoding options, giving users control over how data is interpreted when it lands in Excel.
The imported data appears as a dynamic array, meaning it automatically expands to fit the incoming content. For simpler use cases, IMPORTCSV offers a more streamlined option specifically for CSV files.
It assumes common CSV formatting, making it quicker to use when working with standard exports from apps, databases, or online tools. Both functions allow users to reference local file paths or supported locations, and the data can refresh when the source file is updated.
According to Microsoft, these functions are meant to reduce repeated manual steps when working with frequently updated files. Once the formula is set up, Excel can re-import the data without starting over each time. Keeping the import logic visible inside a formula makes it easier to audit, adjust, or troubleshoot compared to older import methods.
The new import functions are currently rolling out to Microsoft 365 Insider users. They do not replace Power Query, but instead offer a lighter, formula-based alternative for everyday data imports. You can also use the new import functions as part of the context for the =COPILOT function, to ask Copilot questions about the data you’ve brought into Excel and get insights without leaving the sheet.
This builds on Microsoft’s broader push to make Copilot a more hands-on helper across Office apps. It also fits into Microsoft’s broader effort to make Excel quicker to work with, alongside long-standing tips like essential keyboard shortcuts and everyday workflow tricks that many users rely on to get more done.
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