More about XLSM to CSV (Spreadsheet converter)

What is an XLSM File?

XLSM (Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook) is a file format used by Microsoft Excel to store spreadsheets that contain macros. Macros are automated sequences of instructions or code that can simplify repetitive tasks in Excel. XLSM files support advanced features like automation, data processing, and custom functions written in Visual Basic for Applications (VBA).

While XLSM files are excellent for tasks that require automation, they may not be compatible with all spreadsheet programs, especially open-source ones, or may pose security risks if macros are malicious. As a result, users may need to convert XLSM files to a more universally accepted and secure format like CSV.

What is a CSV File?

CSV (Comma Separated Values) is a simple and widely supported file format used to store tabular data in plain text. Each row in a CSV file corresponds to a record, and each column is separated by a comma. CSV files are commonly used for data exchange between various software and platforms because of their simplicity and compatibility with a variety of applications, including Excel, Google Sheets, and database management systems.

Unlike XLSM files, CSV files do not support complex features like formulas, charts, or macros. They contain only the raw data, making them suitable for storing large datasets or for use in systems that don't require advanced Excel features.

Why Convert XLSM to CSV?

Converting an XLSM file to CSV can be beneficial for several reasons:

• Increased Compatibility: While XLSM files require Excel or compatible software to open, CSV files can be opened in almost any spreadsheet program, database, or text editor. Converting to CSV ensures that the data can be easily accessed and shared across different platforms.
• Simplified Data: CSV files store only the raw data without any macros, formulas, or advanced Excel formatting. If you need to use the data in its most basic form without any of the complexities of an XLSM file, converting to CSV can make the data more straightforward to manipulate.
• Security: XLSM files can contain macros, which, if not properly managed, may pose security risks. Converting to CSV removes any potential threats related to macro functionality, making the file safer to share with others.
• Ease of Use in Data Processing: CSV files are a popular format for importing and exporting data to and from databases, statistical software, or programming languages like Python and R. If you need to process the data in a system that doesn't support Excel-specific features, CSV is often the preferred choice.

How to Convert XLSM to CSV

There are several ways to convert an XLSM file to CSV, depending on your preferences and available tools. Here are the most common methods:

• Using Microsoft Excel: The most straightforward way to convert an XLSM file to CSV is by using Microsoft Excel. Simply open the XLSM file in Excel and then save it as a CSV file. The steps are as follows:
  1. Open the XLSM file in Microsoft Excel.
  2. Click on “File” in the top menu and select “Save As.”
  3. Choose the location where you want to save the file.
  4. In the “Save as type” dropdown, select “CSV (Comma delimited) (*.csv).”
  5. Click “Save” to convert the file.

  Note that Excel will save only the active worksheet as a CSV file. If your XLSM file contains multiple sheets, you'll need to save each sheet individually as a separate CSV file.

• Using LibreOffice Calc: LibreOffice Calc is a free, open-source spreadsheet program that can open XLSM files and save them as CSV files. To convert an XLSM file to CSV using LibreOffice:
  1. Open the XLSM file in LibreOffice Calc.
  2. Click on “File” and select “Save As.”
  3. From the “Save as type” dropdown, select “Text CSV (.csv).”
  4. Click “Save” to convert the file.
• Using Online Conversion Tools: There are many free online conversion tools that allow you to upload your XLSM file and convert it to CSV with just a few clicks. This method is quick and doesn’t require any software installation. Simply upload your file, select CSV as the output format, and download the converted file.
• Using Python or Command-Line Tools: If you need to automate the conversion process or handle multiple files at once, you can use Python or command-line tools. For example, the `pandas` library in Python allows you to easily load an XLSM file and save it as CSV using the following code:

      import pandas as pd
      df = pd.read_excel("file.xlsm", sheet_name="Sheet1")
      df.to_csv("output.csv", index=False)
      

  This method is particularly useful for users who need to process large numbers of XLSM files in an automated way.

Step-by-Step Guide to Converting XLSM to CSV Using Excel

Here’s a detailed guide to converting an XLSM file to CSV using Microsoft Excel:

1. Launch Microsoft Excel and open the XLSM file you wish to convert.
2. Navigate to the “File” menu and click on “Save As.”
3. Select a location where you want to save the CSV file.
4. In the “Save as type” dropdown, select “CSV (Comma delimited) (*.csv).”
5. Click the “Save” button. If prompted about the possibility of losing features like formatting or macros, click “Yes” to confirm that you want to continue with the conversion.
6. Repeat the process for each sheet in the workbook if there are multiple sheets, as Excel saves only one sheet at a time as CSV.

Benefits of Converting XLSM to CSV

There are several key benefits of converting XLSM to CSV:

• Universal Compatibility: CSV files can be opened by almost any spreadsheet application, database, or programming language. Converting to CSV ensures that your data is accessible across different platforms.
• Simplified Data Management: CSV files are simpler than XLSM files, containing only raw data. This makes them easier to process, analyze, and manipulate, especially when working with large datasets.
• Security: XLSM files contain macros that can be a security risk, especially if the macros come from untrusted sources. Converting to CSV removes any macros and ensures a safer file to share.
• File Size Reduction: XLSM files can be large due to embedded macros and other features. Converting to CSV can reduce the file size, making it easier to share and store.

Things to Consider When Converting XLSM to CSV

Before you convert XLSM to CSV, keep these points in mind:

• Data Loss: Converting from XLSM to CSV will remove any macros, formulas, and formatting. Only the raw data from the active sheet will be preserved, so make sure you no longer need these advanced features before converting.
• Multiple Sheets: If your XLSM file contains multiple sheets, you will need to convert each sheet separately to CSV. You will lose any references between sheets once the data is converted.
• Character Encoding: Ensure that the CSV file’s character encoding is compatible with the system you plan to use it on, especially if the data contains special characters or non-English text.

Conclusion

Converting XLSM files to CSV is a useful process for users who need to share data across different platforms or for those who wish to simplify their Excel workbooks by removing macros and formatting. Whether you are working with large datasets or need to ensure compatibility with other applications, CSV is a reliable format for data storage and exchange. By following the methods outlined above, you can easily convert your XLSM files to CSV and enjoy the benefits of a simpler, more accessible file format.