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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